A male patient with hepatitis C will begin triple drug therapy with pegylated interferon alfa 2a [Pegasys], ribavirin [Ribasphere], and boceprevir [Victrelis]. The patient tells the nurse that his wife is pregnant. What will the nurse tell him?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The triple combination is dangerous for pregnant women whose partners are using it, so it is contraindicated for any man whose partner is pregnant. Barrier contraceptives should be used by couples to prevent pregnancy when either partner is taking the triple combination therapy. Ribavirin is teratogenic and is not safe when a partner is pregnant. This combination is not safe for pregnant women whose partners are taking these drugs.

A Male Patient with Hepatitis C Will Begin Triple Drug