Medicine Information

Faviravir

Name: Faviravir
Brand: Faviravir
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet200 mgAntiviralsATC: J05AX27

Generic Name

Favipiravir

Manufacturer

Various (e.g., Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Beximco Pharmaceuticals)

Country

India, Bangladesh (for generic versions)

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
faviravir 200 mg tablet	৳ 200.00	৳ 2,000.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Favipiravir is an antiviral medication used in certain countries for the treatment of novel or re-emerging influenza virus infections and, in some emergency use authorizations, for COVID-19. It works by inhibiting viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing viral replication.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of novel or re-emerging influenza virus infections (e.g., in Japan)

Emergency use authorization for mild to moderate COVID-19 (in some regions)

Potential activity against other RNA viruses

Dosage

Adults

For influenza: Day 1: 1600 mg twice daily. Day 2-5: 600 mg twice daily. For COVID-19 (emergency use): Day 1: 1600-1800 mg twice daily. Day 2-5/10: 600-800 mg twice daily. Dosages vary by region and guidelines.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment recommended for elderly patients based on age alone, but monitor renal/hepatic function.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution; dose adjustment may be necessary in severe impairment. Refer to local guidelines.

Hepatic_impairment

Use with caution; dose adjustment may be necessary in severe impairment due to metabolic pathway. Refer to local guidelines.

How to Take

Take orally, with or without food. Complete the full course as prescribed.

Mechanism of Action

Favipiravir is an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitor. It is metabolized intracellularly to its active form, Favipiravir-RTP, which is recognized as a substrate by viral RdRp. It causes lethal mutagenesis by inserting into the nascent viral RNA chain, leading to non-functional viral RNA and inhibition of viral replication.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within hours of initial dose, reduction in viral load.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in the urine as metabolites.

Half life

Approximately 2 to 5 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentration reached within approximately 2 to 4 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver by aldehyde oxidase (AO) and to a lesser extent by xanthine oxidase (XO).

Side Effects

Contraindications

Pregnancy (known teratogen)
Lactation
Severe hepatic impairment
Severe renal impairment
Hypersensitivity to favipiravir or any component

Drug Interactions

Repaglinide

Favipiravir may increase repaglinide exposure; caution with co-administration.

Pyrazinamide

May increase plasma concentrations of pyrazinamide, leading to increased risk of hyperuricemia.

Theophylline

Favipiravir may increase theophylline levels; monitor and adjust dose.

Enzyme inducers/inhibitors

Potential for interactions with drugs metabolized by aldehyde oxidase or xanthine oxidase.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Limited information on overdose. Management should be supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis is not expected to be effective due to high protein binding.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Contraindicated in pregnancy due to strong evidence of teratogenicity and embryotoxicity. Women of childbearing potential must use highly effective contraception during and for a period after treatment. Not recommended during lactation as it is excreted in breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per pack20 tablets per pack

Shelf Life

Typically 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in pharmacies with prescription in approved regions

Approval Status

Approved in various countries for specific viral infections (e.g., Japan for novel influenza, emergency use for COVID-19 in some regions)

Patent Status

Patent expired for original formulation, generic versions available

Clinical Trials

Favipiravir has undergone numerous clinical trials for influenza and COVID-19, with varying results regarding efficacy, particularly for severe COVID-19.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (ALT, AST)
Renal function tests
Uric acid levels
Complete blood count (CBC)

Doctor Notes

Strictly inform patients of teratogenicity risk and ensure effective contraception for women of childbearing age.
Monitor liver function tests and uric acid levels during treatment.
Advise against concomitant use with pyrazinamide or theophylline without careful monitoring.

Patient Guidelines

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop treatment early, even if you feel better.
Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 days after the last dose.
Men should use condoms during treatment and for 7 days after the last dose, and not donate sperm during this period.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

Favipiravir may cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.