TLDR Interferon and ribavirin can cause serious skin reactions and other health issues.
The article reviewed various types of drug-induced cutaneous eruptions caused by interferon and ribavirin, highlighting their commonality and impact on morbidity and mortality in hospital settings. It detailed specific skin reactions such as injection site reactions, psoriasis, eczematous drug reactions, alopecia, sarcoidosis, lupus, fixed drug eruptions, pigmentary changes, and lichenoid eruptions. Additionally, it discussed findings on life-threatening systemic drug reactions.
41 citations,
September 2007 in “European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology” A woman's total hair loss from hepatitis C treatment grew back after stopping the medication.
14 citations,
January 2006 in “Skinmed” A woman developed white patches on her skin and curly hair after hepatitis C treatment, likely due to the medication interferon alpha.
26 citations,
July 2005 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Some patients receiving pegylated interferon alfa injections developed skin necrosis, requiring treatment adjustments or discontinuation.
27 citations,
April 2005 in “Journal of Chemotherapy” Some patients may experience temporary total hair loss from hepatitis C treatment with PEG-interferon and ribavirin.
60 citations,
September 2004 in “Pediatric Dermatology” A girl developed vitiligo and psoriasis after hepatitis B treatment, and stopping the treatment didn't help.
16 citations,
August 2002 in “Journal of Interferon and Cytokine Research” A man developed excessive hair growth after treatment with interferon-alpha and ribavirin for hepatitis C.
35 citations,
January 2002 in “Dermatology” A woman's hair loss during treatment with specific hepatitis C drugs grew back after stopping the medication.
