Remdesivir

Molecule Description

Remdesivir is an antiviral medicine being used by some doctors to treat confirm

ed case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It is to be used in adults and adolescents who are hospitalized due to severe COVID-19. Severe COVID disease is when a patient's oxygen saturation (SpO2) is less than 94% on room air or he requires oxygen support or mechanical ventilation.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Remdesivir

Remdesivir is used in hospitalized adults or adolescents for the treatment of confirmed severe COVID-19 under restricted emergency use.

Contraindications of Remdesivir

When should one not use Remdesivir

If you are allergic to Remdesivir
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding
If you have liver dysfunction

Side effects of Remdesivir

Common side effects of this drug are:

Injection site reactions like pain, bleeding, swelling, bruising
Nausea, shivering, vomiting, fever
Decrease in haemoglobin
Allergic reactions
Increased liver enzymes

Precautions and Warnings of Remdesivir

Pregnancy

Can I use Remdesivir during pregnancy?

Remdesivir is still being studied therefore, there is limited data regarding its safety during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I use Remdesivir while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if Remdesivir passes into breast milk.

Driving

Can I drive if I have been given Remdesivir?

Remdesivir is not expected to interfere with your ability to drive. Patients with COVID-19 disease should stay in the isolation ward of a hospital and should avoid going out to prevent the spread of coronavirus infection.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol if I have been given Remdesivir?

You should avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with Remdesivir as it may increase the risk of liver problems.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have any problems with your liver, your doctor may get a certain liver test performed before and during the treatment while receiving Remdesivir
You suffer from any kidney disease
You have any allergies
You are suffering from any serious diseases
You are pregnant, think you may be or are planning a pregnancy
You are breastfeeding
You develop any allergic reactions after using Remdesivir
You are taking Chloroquine or Hydroxychloroquine
You do not notice any improvement or your condition worsens while on treatment
You will be monitored regularly while on treatment to aid in the early detection of any potential side events

Mode of Action of Remdesivir

How Does It Work?

Remdesivir acts by targeting the genetic material of the virus called RNA. The RNA is important for the replication of the virus. Remdesivir inhibits the viral RNA and prevents the virus from multiply...

Interactions of Remdesivir

Interactions with other medicines

Some medicines can affect the way Remdesivir works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
Inform your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
Concomitant use of Remdesivir along with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine is not recommended.

Dosage of Remdesivir

Overdose

Remdesivir is available in an injection form. It will be given to you by a doctor or nurse as an injection. Therefore, it is less likely that you may get an overdose of Remdesivir. If you experience a...

Missed a Dose

You will be monitored by your doctor or nurse as to when Remdesivir injection is given to you. Therefore, it is unlikely that the dose will be missed.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD CCEBDM Diabetology

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the use of Remdesivir?

A: Remdesivir is used in adults or adolescents hospitalized for the treatment of the severe condition of a confirmed case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) under restricted emergency use.

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before starting Remdesivir?

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical & surgical history.
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby.
Remdesivir may interact with other medicines, hence, inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines including supplements or herbal products. Also, inform your doctor if you are stopping any...
Read more

Q: Does every patient of COVID require Remdesivir?

A: No, Remdesivir is not to be used in mild or moderate cases. It is reserved for severe cases only.

References

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Last Updated on: 23 Apr 2021 | 11:31 AM (IST)

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