Generic
Favipiravir
Indications
Treatment of novel or re-emerging pandemic influenza virus infections (limited to cases in which other influenza antiviral drugs are ineffective or not sufficiently effective).
Pharmacology
Favipiravir is approved for manufacture and sale in Japan as an influenza antiviral. It selectively inhibits the RNA polymerase of the influenza virus, an enzyme required for viral replication once human host cells are infected. COVID-19 also uses this enzyme to replicate and is classified into the same type of single-stranded RNA virus as influenza; hence, it is believed that Favipiravir may be effective in treating COVID-19. Favipiravir is only used when there is an outbreak of novel or re-emerging influenza virus infections in which other influenza antiviral drugs are either not effective or insufficiently effective. Its production and distribution is at the discretion of Japan�s Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, so has never been distributed in the market and is not available at hospitals and pharmacies in Japan or overseas.
Contraindications
In animal studies, decreased RBC production,and increases in liver function parameters such as AST, ALP, ALT and total bilirubin, and increased vacuolization in hepatocytes. Toxicity information regarding Favipiravir in humans is not readily available.
Pregnancy And Lactation
Most common side effects are Diarrhea and increase of blood uric acid levels.
Therapeutic
Favipiravir should not be given in pregnant women, requirement of the confirmation of non-pregnancy in women of childbearing potential before use, thorough contraception measures from the start of the treatment to 7 days after the end of the treatment. Caution should be taken for Hepatic and renal impaired patient or use Favipiravir as per the direction of registered Physician
Storage Conditions
This drug is only approved as an experimental drug and still a lot of studies is needed about it�s efficacy and also toxic reactions and use in children.
Over The Counter Products
