Copegus is used for:
Treating hepatitis C infection in certain patients when used in combination with peginterferon. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Copegus is an antiviral medicine. How Copegus works to treat hepatitis C is not completely understood.
How to use Copegus:
Use Copegus as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
* Copegus comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Copegus refilled.
* Take Copegus by mouth with food.
* Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Copegus is recommended. Check with your doctor for instructions.
* Take Copegus on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Copegus at the same times each day will help you remember to take it.
* Continue to use Copegus even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
* If you miss a dose of Copegus and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once. If you do not remember until the next day, contact your doctor.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Copegus.
Possible side effects of Copegus:
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
* Blurred vision; cough; diarrhea; dizziness; dry mouth; dry skin; hair loss; joint pain; loss of appetite; mild headache, nausea, or vomiting; tiredness; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; weakness or fatigue.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
* Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; changes in vision or speech; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; decrease in the amount of urine; depression; fever, chills, or sore throat; irregular heartbeat; memory problems; muscle pain or weakness; numbness or tingling of arms or legs; one-sided weakness; prolonged nausea and vomiting; rapid breathing; severe headache, dizziness, or vomiting; severe stomach or back pain; shortness of breath; sinus problems; thoughts of suicide; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual mental or mood changes; unusual or severe tiredness and fatigue; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; weight loss; yellowing of eyes or skin.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider.
Proper storage of Copegus:
Store Copegus at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Copegus out of the reach of children and away from pets.
