Renavir

Indications

Remdesivir is an antiviral medicine used in hospital to treat COVID-19. It is given to patients with COVID-19 pneumonia who need extra oxygen, and to some patients who do not need oxygen but are at high risk of becoming seriously ill.

How It Works

Remdesivir stops the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) from copying its genetic material, so the virus cannot multiply. This helps the body clear the infection and can shorten recovery.

Dosage and Administration

Remdesivir is given by a doctor or nurse in hospital as an infusion (drip) into a vein over 30 to 120 minutes, as prescribed. For adults, the usual course is a higher first dose on day 1 followed by a lower dose once a day, for a total of 3 to 10 days depending on how ill the patient is. Children are dosed by body weight, as prescribed.

Interactions

Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine can reduce the antiviral effect of remdesivir and are not given together with it. Strong enzyme-inducing medicines such as Rifampicin are generally avoided. The medical team will review all other medicines.

Contraindications

Allergy to remdesivir or any other ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Common: nausea, raised liver enzymes in blood tests, headache and rash. Infusion-related reactions can occur during or soon after the drip, including low blood pressure, sweating, shivering, nausea and a slow heartbeat.

Tell the nurse or doctor straight away if, during or after the infusion, you feel faint or dizzy, become short of breath or wheezy, notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, get a rash, chest pain or a very slow or irregular heartbeat, or develop yellow eyes or skin.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Used in pregnancy only if the doctor decides the benefit outweighs the possible risk. The doctor will also advise whether to continue breastfeeding during treatment.

Precautions and Warnings

• Liver blood tests are done before starting and during treatment; it may be stopped if liver enzymes rise too much.
• Kidney function and blood clotting tests may also be checked.
• Patients are watched closely for infusion reactions.
• It does not replace oxygen, steroids or other supportive treatment given in hospital.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely because it is given by trained staff in hospital. If too much is given, the medical team will monitor the patient and give supportive care.

Therapeutic Class

Antiviral (nucleotide analogue).

Storage

Unopened vials of powder: store below 30°C. Concentrate solutions: store at 2 to 8°C if the product label says so. Prepared infusions are handled by hospital staff according to the product instructions. Keep out of reach of children.