Awareness of Ribavirin therapy among dental students

Abstract

Ribavirin is another nucleotide analogue with a wide range of antiviral efficacy against multiple viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, measles, herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus, Lassa fever, and hepatitis B and C viral infections. Ribavirin can indeed be delivered orally, intravenous infusion or via a nebulizer. This survey was initiated to study the awareness of ribavirin therapy amongst dental students. This was cross-sectional type research done with a questionnaire distributed among 100 dental college students in Chennai. A self-designed questionnaire with 10 items that elicit knowledge and understanding of ribavirin therapy amongst dental college students. Questionnaires were circulated through an online website survey planet. The questions explored the awareness of Ribavirin therapy, indications, contra indications, mechanism of action and side effects. After the responses were received from 100 participants, data were collected and analysed. 7% were aware of Ribavirin therapy. 5% were aware of the mechanism of action of Ribavirin therapy. 5% were aware of the indications of Ribavirin therapy. 3% were aware of the contraindications of Ribavirin therapy. 4% were aware of about adverse effects of Ribavirin therapy. The awareness about ribavirin in managing viral infections was less among dental students. Increased awareness and educational programs should be initiated to spread knowledge about ribavirin therapy.