Key takeaways
Viekira Pak (dasabuvir, ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir) and Rebetol (ribavirin) are both antiviral medications used to treat hepatitis C. However, they differ in several ways. Viekira Pak is a combination of three antiviral medications and a booster, specifically used to treat hepatitis C genotype 1, while Rebetol is used for chronic hepatitis C and must be combined with other antivirals. Viekira Pak is taken as four tablets daily, whereas Rebetol's dosage is based on body weight and is usually taken twice daily. Viekira Pak is not available in generic form, while Rebetol is, making it potentially more affordable. Common side effects of Viekira Pak include fatigue, nausea, and itching, while Rebetol commonly causes headache, fever, and muscle aches. Viekira Pak has many drug interactions and can't be taken with birth control containing ethynyl estradiol. Rebetol also has many drug interactions, and when taken with azathioprine can cause a decreased blood cell count.
