the neurological effects of ribavirin in crimean-congo hemorrhagic fever symptoms: a systematic review

Background: ribavirin is widely used in treating viral infections like crimean-congo hemorrhagic fever (cchf), which is a severe disease with high morbidity and mortality. however, despite its antiviral effectiveness, there have been concerns about neurological adverse effects related to therapy with ribavirin.objectives: this study aims to review the effects associated with ribavirin therapy in cchf patients.materials & methods:  we searched studies published up to june 2024 in databases pubmed, scopus, web of science and google scholar. we screened articles reporting neurological side effects of ribavirin in cchf infection patients. we extracted data on adverse neurological symptoms, dosing, and mode of administration of ribavirin, as well as the characteristics of patients.results: studies yielded neurological signs and symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and advanced-state encephalopathy or seizures following treatment with ribavirin. these manifestations were found more often among patients with previous renal conditions and those receiving higher or more extended dosages of ribavirin. although ribavirin can decrease mortality rates in some instances, this drug is potentially causing neurological damage in the most vulnerable of cases.conclusion: ribavirin is considered one of the most important antiviral treatments for cchf; however, it should be cautiously monitored. it is expected that future studies investigate the mechanism of neurotoxicity caused by ribavirin in greater detail and develop treatment modalities that carry less risk. close monitoring of the patients receiving ribavirin therapy is crucial to avoid such risks.