MOLNUPIRAVIR

Molnupiravir is an antiviral medication developed for the treatment of viral infections. It was originally investigated for influenza but has gained attention for its potential effectiveness against certain RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Molnupiravir works by introducing errors during viral RNA replication, inhibiting the virus's ability to replicate and spread within the body.

Indications

-Molnupiravir is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults who have tested positive for the virus and are at high risk for progression to severe disease. -Treatment of adult patients with COVID-19, with SpO2>93% and who have high risk of progression of the disease including hospitalization or death. Molnupiravir is not authorized for. -Use in patients less than 18 years of age. -Initiation of treatment in patients requiring immediate hospitalization due to COVID-19 at that stage, (however, if it was initiated before hospitalization due to COVID-19, it may be continued). -Use for longer than 5 consecutive days. -Pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis for prevention of COVID-19. -Pregnant women. -Females of childbearing potential should use a reliable method of contraception correctly and consistently, as applicable, for the duration of treatment and for 4 days after the last dose of molnupiravir. -Male of reproductive potential who are sexually active with females of child bearing potential should use a reliable method of contraception correctly and consistently during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose.

Dosage

-The typical dosage for molnupiravir is taken orally [frequency] for a prescribed duration. Dosage may vary based on the severity of the infection and the prescribing healthcare professional's assessment. -Adults: 800mg (four 20mg capsules) taken orally every 12 hours for 5 days. Should be administered as soon as possible after a diagnosis of COVID-19 has been made and within 5 days of symptom onset. Elderly: No dose adjustment of molnupiravir is required based on age, patients with hepatic impairment and for patients with renal impairment. For oral use : Can be taken with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of fluid (e.g., a glass of water). The capsules should not be opened, crushed or chewed.

Contra-Indications

-Molnupiravir is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should not be used in pregnant women, as its safety during pregnancy has not been established. -Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.

Special Precautions

-Molnupiravir's safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established, so its use in children is not recommended. -Caution is advised in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, and dosage adjustments may be necessary. Pregnant women: - There are no data from the use of molnupiravir in pregnant women. Lactating women: - Breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment and for 4 days after the last dose of Molnupiravir.

Side Effects

-Common side effects may include, while serious side effects are rare. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unexpected or severe reactions. -Nervous sytem disorders Common- Dizziness, Headache, -Gastrointestinal disorders Common-Diarrhoea, Nausea Uncommon- Vomiting -Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorder Uncommon- Rash, Urticarial

Drug Interactions

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to prevent potential interactions.