Which antiviral can cause psychiatric side effects?

Ribavirin is known for its association with various side effects, including psychiatric symptoms. It is a broad-spectrum antiviral drug commonly utilized in the treatment of certain viral infections, such as hepatitis C and some viral hemorrhagic fevers. The psychiatric side effects linked to ribavirin can include depression, anxiety, and irritability. This connection is particularly important for healthcare providers to monitor in patients undergoing treatment, as these symptoms can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and adherence to therapy.

In contrast, the other antiviral agents listed are primarily associated with different side effects. For instance, zanamivir and oseltamivir, both neuraminidase inhibitors used primarily against influenza, do not commonly present with psychiatric side effects, although they can have respiratory-related adverse reactions. Ganciclovir, used mainly for the treatment of cytomegalovirus infections, can lead to hematologic side effects rather than psychiatric issues. Understanding the potential side effects of antiviral agents is crucial in clinical practice, especially when managing a patient's treatment regimen.