REMDESIVIR

Remdesivir is an antiviral drug belonging to the class of purine nucleosides. It received approval from the U.S. FDA on 1 May 2020 for the treatment of COVID-19.

Remdesivir is prescribed to treat Coronavirus disease.

Remdesivir will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an intravenous injection into a vein. Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Remdesivir are nausea, liver disorders, and low oxygen level in the blood. Some serious side effects also include changes in heart rate, fever, wheezing, and shortness of breath. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report to your doctor immediately.

This drug is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions to the medication or any of its components. If an individual has previously experienced a severe allergic reaction to Remdesivir, they should not receive the medication. Also, this use is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment and can cause severe liver-related adverse effects. Close monitoring of liver function is recommended during treatment with this drug. If significant liver function abnormalities are observed, treatment should be discontinued.

It is highly advised to use this drug cautiously in individuals with renal impairment (moderate to severe kidney disease), as it is primarily eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Monitoring renal function and adjusting the dose accordingly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment is necessary. It is unknown whether this injection will affect the unborn baby. Inform your physician beforehand if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you take any other medications or before using over-the-counter or herbal products. Your doctor will evaluate the risk of interaction with this medication.

Wearing a mask in public places is recommended to help prevent infection spread. Maintaining social distance from others reduces transmission risk. Hand hygiene—washing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds or using hand sanitiser—helps eliminate germs. If a dose of Remdesivir injection is missed and the next scheduled dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one. Saltwater gargling and steam inhalations may be beneficial. Including protein-rich foods in your diet, such as eggs, cheese, tofu, and salmon, may support tissue repair and growth.

Gilead Sciences, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC) [Revised on Jan 2021] [Accessed on 27th Mar 2021], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.11597.pdf Gilead Sciences, US food and drug administration [Revised on Oct 2020] [Accessed on 27th Mar 2021], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/214787Orig1s000lbl.pdf