Favipiravir: Antiviral Drug for Flu & COVID-19
Favipiravir is a synthetic broad-spectrum antiviral agent. Its mechanism involves selectively inhibiting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme, which is essential for viral replication within host cells.
Originally developed in Japan to combat novel influenza strains, Favipiravir gained global attention during the pandemic as a treatment for mild to moderate COVID-19. On Unifarm, you can find a list of medications (including Avigan generics) containing this active ingredient.
Indications
- Novel or Re-emerging Influenza: Treatment of influenza infections where other antiviral drugs are ineffective or not applicable.
- COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): Used for mild to moderate cases (subject to local clinical guidelines and approval).
Dosage and administration
Favipiravir is taken orally (tablets), typically 30 minutes before meals. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after symptom onset.
Standard Regimen (may vary):
- Day 1 (Loading Dose): 1600 mg (or 1800 mg depending on brand) twice daily.
- Days 2–10 (Maintenance Dose): 600 mg (or 800 mg) twice daily.
The total duration of the course is usually between 5 to 14 days as prescribed by a physician.
- Pregnancy (Strictly Prohibited): The drug is teratogenic (causes fetal defects/malformations).
- Planning pregnancy (both men and women) during treatment and for up to 3 months after discontinuation.
- Breastfeeding.
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Children under 18 years of age.
- History of gout or hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels).
Monitoring of uric acid levels is recommended during therapy. Possible reactions include:
- Metabolic: Hyperuricemia (increased blood uric acid), aggravation of gout.
- Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
- Hepatic: Elevation of ALT, AST, and Gamma-GT enzymes.
- Hematologic: Decreased neutrophil and white blood cell counts.
