The invention relates to oral pharmaceutical compositions for the
prevention and/or the treatment of viral diseases. This invention also
addresses methods of prevention and/or treatment of these viral diseases,
using these oral compositions. One of the main problems considered in the
present invention is to enhance the efficiency of anti-viral treatments,
especially against Hepatitis C virus by means of ribavirin, for example
in combination with interferon. The oral ribavirin antiviral composition
according to the invention increases the bio-absorption time of
ribavirin, and thus improves the treatment of patients. Said composition
comprises at least one modified release form of ribavirin, the
bio-absorption time BAT of which is greater than the bio-absorption time
BAT* of a reference* immediate release form of ribavirin administered at
the same dose; BAT being preferably comprised between 2 and 15 h and more
preferably between 4 and 12 h. Said composition is a reservoir type form
or a matrix type form. Said composition is a gastric retentive system or
a multiparticulate form.