( lowing down the growth ofthe virus. CO...)Pegasys Study Authors Conclude that Patients Successfully Treated,for Hepatitis C Can be Considered ''Cured'',Health

COPEGUS (Ribavirin, USP) can be extremely harmful and cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Female patients and the female partners of male patients should avoid getting pregnant. Ribavirin is known to cause anemia (low red blood cells), which can make heart disease worse. Also, ribavirin can harm your DNA and possibly cause cancer (see medication guide for more information and warnings).

Who should not take PEGASYS and COPEGUS?

Do not take PEGASYS alone or with COPEGUS if:

-- You are pregnant or your partner is pregnant

-- You or your partner plans to get pregnant during therapy or within 6 months after treatment ends

-- You are breastfeeding

-- You have hepatitis caused by your immune system (autoimmune hepatitis)

-- You have unstable or severe liver disease before or during treatment

-- You are allergic to alpha interferons or any of the ingredients in PEGASYS and COPEGUS

-- You have abnormal red blood cells (caused by conditions like sickle-cell anemia or thalassemia major)

What if I am pregnant or thinking about having a baby?

If you are a woman who could get pregnant, you must take pregnancy tests before, during and for 6 months after treatment ends to make sure you are not pregnant.

During treatment and for 6 months after treatment, female and male patients must:

-- Use two forms of birth control (one being a condom with spermicide)

-- Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. You or your doctor should also call the Ribavirin Pregnancy Registry at 1-800-593-2214

What medication should I avoid when I am taking PEGASYS and COPEGUS?

You should not take didanosine with COPEGUS. Talk to your doctor about all medications that you are taking.

What are the possible side effects?

The mos
'"/>