Molnupiravir
About
Molnupiravir belongs to a class of drugs called antiviral agents indicated for the mild to the moderate treatment of Covid-19. Coronavirus disease/Covid-19, also known as SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2), is an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus. Its symptoms include fever and cough and, in some cases, progressing to pneumonia and respiratory failure.
Molnupiravir contains Molnupiravir, a protease inhibitor. It works by interfering with a protein known as protease, which is necessary for the virus-infected cells to generate new viruses. As a result, the resulting virus particles have faulty genetic material and can no longer reproduce. Thereby, Molnupiravir lowers virus load in the body and helps treat the infection.
Take Molnupiravir as prescribed. To treat your condition effectively, you are advised to take Molnupiravir for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. In some cases, Molnupiravir may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, and dizziness. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult a doctor.
Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose. Please seek medical advice from the doctor before taking Molnupiravir if you are pregnant. Breastfeeding should be discontinued during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose. Molnupiravir may cause dizziness, so drive with caution. It is unknown whether consuming alcohol with Molnupiravir is safe. However, it is best to avoid alcohol consumption as it may cause increased dizziness. Keep your healthcare professional updated on your medical condition and medications to rule out any interactions.
Uses of Molnupiravir
Medicinal Benefits
Molnupiravir is an experimental antiviral medication that lowers the risk of hospitalisation or death in patients with mild or moderate covid-19. Molnupiravir is a potent protease inhibitor that interferes with a protein (protease) required by virus-infected cells to generate new viruses. As a result, Molnupiravir helps reduce viral load in the body and aids in infection therapy.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Molnupiravir
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Dizziness
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Please do not take Molnupiravir if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose. Please seek medical advice from the doctor before taking Molnupiravir if you are pregnant. Breastfeeding should be discontinued during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose. Molnupiravir may cause dizziness, so drive with caution. It is unknown whether consuming alcohol with Molnupiravir is safe. However, it is best to avoid alcohol consumption as it may cause increased dizziness. Keep your doctor updated on your medical condition and medications to rule out any interactions.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: No interactions were found/established.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions were found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions were found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionIt is unknown whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Molnupiravir. However, it is advisable not to take or limit alcohol as it may lead to increased dizziness.
Pregnancy
unsafeMolnupiravir is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Please seek medical advice if you are pregnant or intend to get pregnant. Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose.
Breast Feeding
unsafeMolnupiravir is not recommended during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should be discontinued during the treatment and for 4days after the last dose.
Driving
cautionMolnupiravir may cause dizziness. So, drive only if you are alert.
Liver
cautionLimited information is available regarding the usage of Molnupiravir in patients suffering from liver impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Kidney
cautionLimited information is available regarding the usage of Molnupiravir in patients suffering from kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Children
cautionThe safety and effectiveness of Molnupiravir have not been established in children below 18years. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Remember always to wear a mask when you're in public. Wearing a mask helps to prevent the spread of illness.
- Avoid social gatherings and maintain a social distance.
- If your hands aren't clean, don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Hands should be washed regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitiser.
- On a regular basis, all surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected.
- Gargling with salt water and inhaling steam are recommended.
- Personal objects contaminated with bodily fluids or blood, such as razor blades or toothbrushes, should never be exchanged.
- Never share used needles, injections, or medical devices, as this can lead to virus transmission.
- Eat a well-balanced diet. Eat vitamin and nutrient-rich foods like dark green, yellow, orange, and red vegetables and fruits to boost your immune system. Select lean protein and whole grains over-processed foods.
- Eat no raw meat or eggs. Consume cooked or boiled meat, poultry, or seafood.
- Eat bland, low-fat foods and avoid spicy or greasy foods if you're feeling sick.
Special Advise
- Do not use any antipyretic or anti-allergic medication without first consulting a doctor if you develop a fever or rash after taking Molnupiravir.
- While taking Molnupiravir, specific tests may be recommended to monitor changes in blood lipids.
- Seek medical help immediately if you have a severe cough, fever, or breathing difficultly.
- Regularly monitor SpO2 (oxygen saturation levels), and report to a hospital if the levels are below 92%.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
COVID-19: COVID-19 disease is an infectious disease caused by a coronavirus. It is also known as SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2). Coronavirus belongs to the RNA virus family and contains crown-like projections on its surface. The virus spreads through droplets produced by an infected person's cough, sneeze, or heavy breathing. Coronavirus sickness is characterised by dry cough, dyspnea, shortness of breath, fever, loss of taste and smell, diarrhoea, body pains, headache, and sore throat.
FAQs
Molnupiravir is a potent protease inhibitor that interferes with a protein (protease) required by virus-infected cells to generate new viruses. This helps in the reduction of viral load in the body and aids in infection treatment.
Yes, both symptomatic and asymptomatic infected individuals can transmit the virus. To stay protected, maintain social distancing and always wear a mask whilst going out.
People who are infected with Covid-19 may or may not develop symptoms. Asymptomatic cases are those that do not have any symptoms but have been laboratory confirmed.
Yes, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) classifies that Molnupiravir would be effective against mutations of the virus, including the Delta, Gamma, and other mutations.
Do not stop taking Molnupiravir without consulting your doctor. To treat your condition effectually continue taking Molnupiravir for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you experience any difficulty while taking Molnupiravir.
