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What is ribavirin?
Ribavirin is an old drug that has been used for years to treat serious virus infections like Respiratory
Syncytial Virus (RSV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). There is new human research from McGill University
and University of Montral which shows that ribavirin can safely and successfully treat a type of blood
cancer called AML with minimal side effects (Molecular targeting of the oncogene eIF4E in AML: a proofof-principle clinical trial with ribavirin, Blood, May 2009).
What were the trial results?
The first human trial of ribavirin as a cancer treatment was performed in type M4/M5 AML patients. In this
trial of 13 patients, 11 could be evaluated for response. A total of 9 out of 11 patients responded to
ribavirin (82%), with 4 out of 11 having stable disease (36%), 4 out of 11 showing improvement (36%)
and 1 patient with complete remission (9%).
How does it work?
Ribavirin works by interfering with a protein called eIF4E that plays a key role in tumour cell growth,
survival, metastasis and angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels). Ribavirin causes the cancer cells to
die and blocks them from growing new blood supply to feed themselves.
Does ribavirin work on any other cancers besides leukemia?
It is exciting to note that extensive research has been done which shows that eIF4E is vital to many other
cancers for survival, growth, metastasis and angiogenesis. These include:
Bladder (transitional cell carcinoma)
Breast
Cervix
Colon
Glioblastoma
Head and Neck (squamous cell carcinoma)
Lung
Lymphoma
Prostate
Based on this, we believe that ribavirin will have a role in the treatment of these cancer types, and
possibly others as well. This has not yet been established by formal human research. However, we now
have preliminary data that shows ribavirin can work in colon cancer synergistically with DCA. This data
comes from a ChemoFit test of a single patient. The results showed 5% response to DCA (5% of cancer
cells killed), 16% response to ribavirin and 59% response to both drugs combined.
Is it safe?
In the human research noted above, there were no serious side effects reported from ribavirin treatment.
The most serious ribavirin side effect reported in the literature is a 10-20% risk of a drop in the blood level
due to damage to the red blood cells (hemolytic anemia). Since all the research involving ribavirin was
conducted in combination with a drug called interferon, it is likely that the combination of these 2 drugs is
responsible for the hemolytic anemia. Routine blood tests will detect anemia, and ribavirin can simply be
stopped if it develops.
All Medicor patients who receive ribavirin will be closely monitored by our physicians for drug side effects
with routine check-ups and comprehensive lab tests.
Why is ribavirin not being used more?
Ribavirin has only undergone 1 clinical trial so far as a cancer treatment (Phase 1/2). Until it clears a
Phase 3 trial, it will not be routinely used to treat cancer. Presently, there are no Phase 3 ribavirin trails.
Is it available?
Yes. Medicor has arrangements with a reputable chemical manufacturing company to supply
pharmaceutical grade ribavirin for our patients. Our ribavirin is manufactured under strict regulations. We
abide by all the relevant Federal and Provincial regulations for off-label ribavirin use. Ribavirin can only
be dispensed to patients who come under the care of our physicians.
Do I qualify for ribavirin treatment?
We are accepting new patients with a documented diagnosis of cancer (any type) who:
a. have failed conventional, scientifically proven treatments
b. have been told by their doctor that there is no safe or effective treatment for their cancer
c. are unable to take conventional treatments due to their age or concurrent medical problems
d. have been treated for cancer, and have no proven options to help prevent recurrence
Presently, there is some evidence that ribavirin may work well in combination with other treatments. For
patients who wish to combine ribavirin with conventional therapies, please ask your doctor to review the
literature before making a decision.
There is a theoretical increased risk of anemia if ribavirin is combined with chemotherapy, TM, rapamycin
or imiquimod. We may still use such combinations depending on the circumstances. We support the
patients right to make an informed decision about their own care.
What is the cost?
The cost of ongoing ribavirin treatment at Medicor is $185 per week. During the course of treatment, all
medically-necessary doctors visits, blood tests and imaging are arranged at no cost, provided you have a
valid Health Card from Ontario or another province. Quebec patients must pre-pay for medical services,
which can be reimbursed through the Ministre de la Sant. Ribavirin treatment may be covered by
private medical insurance, but only a combination of ribavirin + interferon is available in Canada (e.g. DIN
= 02246026). Please ask your pharmacist to check your individual plan for coverage. Ribavirin 200mg
tablets are available outside Canada by prescription.
What is the duration of treatment?
In order to determine if ribavirin is effective in treating your cancer, we recommend at least 2 months of
treatment. If a patient responds to the drug, their therapy may continue indefinitely.
Is ribavirin cheaper if I buy it from an online pharmacy?
The cost of ribavirin purchased from Medicor remains the same regardless of the dose (can range from
1000mg/day to 3000mg/day). If you buy ribavirin from an online pharmacy, the initial cost is about the
same. However, after the first 1 2 weeks of treatment when the dose increases, ribavirin will be as low
as of the cost if purchased from Medicor.
How do I become a Medicor patient?
Please obtain your pathology report (confirming the diagnosis of cancer), your latest CT scan or MRI (if
applicable), and your latest blood test report. If you do not have a pathology report (you did not have a biopsy),
we require your specialists notes confirming the diagnosis of cancer.
You can call us at (416) 227-0037 to make an appointment to discuss your individual case. You can also contact
us through our website at http://www.medicorcancer.com. A valid Health Card is required for a free consultation.
Patients are only required to pay for the medication, as it is not covered by Ontario Drug Benefits. Private clinic
services are available by request to maximize your care.