Favipiravir
Information about Favipiravir
Favipiravir uses
Favipiravir is used in the treatment of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
How favipiravir works
Favipiravir is an antiviral medicine. It stops the SARS-CoV-2 virus from multiplying. By doing so, it decreases viral load in the body, restricts the spread of infection and helps in speeding up the recovery process.
Common side effects of favipiravir
Increased uric acid level in blood, Diarrhea, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Increased liver enzymes, Increased triglyceride level in blood, Abnormal behavior, Eczema, Itching, Liver dysfunction
Available Medicine for Favipiravir
Expert advice for Favipiravir
- Favipiravir is used for the treatment of mild to moderate Covid-19 symptoms.
- Inform your doctor if you have gout, uric acid, liver, or kidney disease.
- Favipiravir should be administered with care to elderly patients by monitoring their general conditions.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you see signs of allergic reactions like red or blistering rash, difficulty swallowing or breathing, swelling of the eyelids, lips, face, throat, or tongue.
- Favipiravir can be taken on an empty or full stomach. However, taking it with food might reduce the possibility of nausea and vomiting.
- It is advisable to use contraceptive methods while taking Favipiravir and for 7 days after the completion of the treatment.
- Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Favipiravir
Favipiravir
Q. What is Favipiravir? What is it used for?
Favipiravir is a medicine that belongs to a class of medicines called antiviral medicines. Favipiravir is used for managing patients suffering from mild to moderate Covid-19 infection.
Q. When is the best time to start treatment with Favipiravir?
Favipiravir is best taken in mildly infected individuals than in those who have severe Covid-19 infection. This is because early use of antiviral medicines, such as Favipiravir, is seen to be more effective in treating Covid-19 infection. Delay in treatment only slows down the recovery process and worsens the existing symptoms such as breathing issues, cough, or fever. If left untreated, this viral infection may even lead to organ failure. Once tested positive for Covid-19, consult your doctor immediately.
Q. Who should not take Favipiravir?
Favipiravir should not be used for treating patients who are allergic to Favipiravir or any of its ingredients. Children should not be given Favipiravir. It should not be given to patients with severe kidney or liver disease too. Additionally, people who have any abnormal uric acid levels or are suffering from gout must inform their doctor before taking Favipiravir. If you are planning a baby, pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before starting treatment with Favipiravir to avoid any potential harm to your baby. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum benefit.