Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Peginterferon a-2a plus Ribavirin

Peginterferon alfa-2a activates interferon-alpha receptors to enhance antiviral immunity, while ribavirin inhibits viral RNA synthesis, together suppressing hepatitis C virus replication.

Peginterferon alfa-2a activates interferon-alpha receptors to enhance antiviral immunity, while ribavirin inhibits viral RNA synthesis, together suppressing hepatitis C virus replication. Used for Chronic hepatitis C virus infection (genotypes 1-6).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Peginterferon alfa-2a is a long-acting interferon that binds to type I interferon receptors on immune cells and hepatocytes, triggering antiviral and immunomodulatory responses including upregulation of 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase and protein kinase R. Ribavirin is a nucleoside analog that inhibits viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and depletes guanosine pools, reducing HCV replication. The combination provides synergistic antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus.

Approved indications

• Chronic hepatitis C virus infection (genotypes 1-6)

Common side effects

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, myalgia)
• Hemolytic anemia
• Neutropenia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Depression and mood changes
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Alopecia

Key clinical trials

• HRN 004- Peginterferon a-2a Plus Ribavirin for Chronic Hepatitis C Infection in HIV Infected Persons Who Have Failed to Achieve a Sustained Virologic Response Following Previous Interferon Therapy (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

• Peginterferon a-2a plus Ribavirin CI brief — competitive landscape report
• Peginterferon a-2a plus Ribavirin updates RSS · CI watch RSS
• Hepatitis Resource Network portfolio CI