This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Molnupiravir is an antiviral medication containing the active constituent Molnupiravir. It treats mild to moderate COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease) in people at risk for developing severe illness. COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Molnupiravir is not recommended for adolescents and children under the age of 18. This drug must be taken within five days of the onset of symptoms to be most effective. Molnupiravir could also provide an alternative treatment option for COVID-19 patients who cannot receive or do not respond well to existing treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies or remdesivir.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

The work of Molnupiravir is to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and prevent the virus from replicating and spreading within the body. This is accomplished by introducing errors into the genetic material of the virus, which can ultimately render it unable to reproduce and cause further harm.

Uses of undefined

Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in high-risk adults.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Take Molnupiravir in the dose and duration prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the medication whole with plenty of water. Do not chew or crush the capsules. This capsule can be taken with or without food. Do not skip or miss doses.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Some patients may experience allergic reactions to Molnupiravir, which can be serious or life-threatening in some cases. The safety and effectiveness of patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease have not been established. The safety and effectiveness of this medication in immunocompromised patients have not been established.

Precautions

Patients require monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, or difficulty breathing, and should seek medical attention immediately if any such symptoms occur. Patients with impaired renal function need careful attention to potential adverse effects and may require dosage adjustments.

Side Effects

Molnupiravir may cause side effects, some of which may be serious. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials were diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Other common side effects include headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects that have been reported include anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), increased risk of bleeding, and liver injury.

Word Of Advice

If you have been prescribed Molnupiravir, it is important to carefully read and understand the warnings and precautions associated with the medication. It increases the risk of infection, so patients should avoid close contact with infected persons. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before taking it. Use effective birth control measures while taking this medicine and for at least four days after the last dose. Do not stop taking Molnupiravir without consulting your physician, as it will increase the chance of becoming severely ill from COVID-19. Patients should avoid contact with infected patients. Always maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Merck Sharp & Dohme (UK) Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Revised on Nov 2021] [ Accessed on 9th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.13044.pdf
  2. Florian Kabinger et al; Mechanism of molnupiravir-induced SARS-CoV-2 mutagenesis; Nature Structural & Molecular Biology; [Published on 11/08/2021]; [Accessed on 9 May 2023]; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41594-021-00651-0
  3. William Fischer et al; Molnupiravir, an Oral Antiviral Treatment for COVID-19; medRxiv; [Published on 17/06/2021]; [Accessed on 9th May 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34159342/

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.