Ribavirin is an antiviral compound primarily used to treat hepatitis C.
CAS Number
36791-04-5
Molecular Formula
C8H12N4O5
Molecular Weight
244.206
Mechanism of Action
Ribavirn is a guanosine analog with a carboxamide group which can mimic the purine nucleosides, guanosine and adenosine. Because of its similarity to these two nucleosides, ribavirn can become incorporated into viral RNA leading to lethal mutations.
Spectrum
Ribavirn is active against hepatitis C and RNA viruses that cause viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs).