Biotech Values

[woofer]

Good question. I guess someone should tell the Vertex folks to get their act together. In fact, if there is a medical student on this board, perhaps he/she could update this entry in Wikipedia......
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ribavirin#Adverse_effects

....after a little research.....
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&as_q=ribavirin+rashes

Re: I think that ribavirin is almost as guilty

So why are these trials being designed to avoid the rash when rib is in both arms?
================================
Just for kicks, I'm going to include the current entry under "Adverse_effects" (about Ribavirin)

Adverse effects
Ribavirin is not substantially incorporated into DNA, but does have a dose-dependent inhibiting effect on DNA synthesis, as well as having other effects on gene-expression. Possibly for these reasons, significant teratogenic effects have been noted in all non-primate animal species on which ribavirin has been tested. Ribavirin did not produce birth defects in baboons, but this should not be an indication that it is safe in humans. Therefore, two simultaneous forms of birth control are recommended during treatment of either partner and continued for six months after treatment. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant are advised not to take ribavirin. Of special concern as regards teratogenicity is the ribavirin's long half-life in the body. Red blood cells (erythrocytes) concentrate the drug and are unable to excrete it, so this pool is not completely eliminated until all red cells have turned over, a process estimated to take as long as 6 months. Thus in theory, ribavirin might remain a reproductive hazard for as long as 6 months after a course of the drug has ended. Drug packaging information materials in the U.S. now reflect this warning.

Ribavirin should not be given with zidovudine because of the increased risk of anaemia[14]; concurrent use with didanosine should likewise be avoided because of an increased risk of mitochondrial toxicity.[15]