Piravir

Favipiravir is an oral antiviral medication that inhibits viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, disrupting the replication process of RNA viruses. By preventing the synthesis of viral RNA, it reduces viral load, limiting spread within the body and promoting recovery. Primarily approved for influenza, it has been investigated for emerging infections like Ebola and COVID-19, though evidence for the latter remains mixed with low-certainty data on efficacy. It can be used alone or in combination regimens for targeted antiviral therapy.

Key Benefits:

• Rapidly reduces viral replication in susceptible infections
• Oral convenience for outpatient management
• Potential shortening of symptom duration in influenza
• Investigational role in pandemic viral threats
• Supports immune clearance by lowering viral burden

How to Use

• Administration: Take orally with a full glass of water.
• Timing: With or without food; at the same time daily for adherence.
• Dosage Form: Swallow whole; do not crush, chew, or split.
• Consistency: Follow exact prescribed regimen; complete full course.
• Duration: Typically several days; as directed by provider.

Expert Tips from CureCart Direct:

• Hydrate adequately to support renal clearance and prevent dehydration.
• Monitor for dizziness; avoid activities requiring alertness initially.
• Do not share; inform doctor of all concurrent medications.
• Report worsening symptoms or new issues promptly.
• Store in original packaging away from moisture.

Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless near next dose—skip and resume. Do not double up.

Overdose: Potential for enhanced side effects like severe dizziness or GI upset—seek emergency care immediately.

Primary Uses

• Treatment of influenza to reduce viral multiplication and symptoms.
• Investigational therapy for Ebola virus disease.
• Supportive management in COVID-19 (under evaluation; not universally recommended).

Indications

Indicated for influenza in adults; off-label or emergency use for Ebola and COVID-19 based on regional approvals and guidelines. For COVID-19, considered in mild-moderate cases in some countries, but recent meta-analyses show low-certainty evidence for virological or clinical benefits.

Side Effects

Common:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Back pain
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Rash or skin irritation

Less Common:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Elevated uric acid levels

Serious/Rare:

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions
• QT prolongation in cardiac patients
• Hyperuricemia leading to gout flares

Monitor for persistent GI issues or neurological symptoms.

Warnings and Precautions

• Pregnancy: Contraindicated; potential teratogenic risks—use effective contraception.
• Lactation: Insufficient data; consult physician and consider alternatives.
• Driving: Avoid if dizziness occurs; assess tolerance first.
• Liver Impairment: Caution; dose adjustment may be needed—monitor LFTs.
• Kidney Impairment: Use cautiously; renal clearance affected—monitor function.
• Alcohol: Avoid; may exacerbate side effects like dizziness.
• Other: Disclose history of heart disease, gout, or psychiatric conditions. Not for viral resistance cases.

Contraindications

Do not use in:

• Known hypersensitivity to Favipiravir or excipients.
• Pregnancy or planning pregnancy.
• Severe renal/hepatic failure without adjustment.
• Gout or hyperuricemia history without monitoring.

FAQs

What if I stop early? May cause symptom rebound and increased viral load—complete course as prescribed.

Safe for children? Consult doctor; pediatric dosing not established for all indications.

Onset of action? Effects begin within hours, but full viral reduction takes days—continue until advised.

Duration of treatment? Several days typically; follow provider to ensure viral clearance.

Missed dose? Take promptly but skip if near next; no doubling.

Related Tests: Viral PCR, renal/liver function, uric acid levels.

Doctor Review

Dr. Omar Siddiqui, MBBS, FCPS – Infectious Disease Specialist “Favipiravir functions as a purine nucleotide analog that incorporates into viral RNA via RdRp inhibition, inducing chain termination and mutagenesis in susceptible RNA viruses like influenza A/B. Its pharmacokinetic profile features rapid absorption with peak plasma levels in 0.5-1 hour and hepatic metabolism, though complex conversion to active triphosphate limits consistent antiviral concentrations against SARS-CoV-2, as evidenced by EC50 discrepancies in preclinical models. Clinical trials, including phase 3 RCTs in mild-moderate COVID-19, demonstrate modest viral clearance acceleration but no mortality benefit, with low-certainty meta-analytic data underscoring additive AE risks like hyperuricemia without superior outcomes over standards like remdesivir. Utility persists in influenza settings, warranting resistance surveillance in expanded indications.”

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before use. CureCart Direct ensures accurate details but cannot cover all interactions or precautions. Prices and availability subject to change.