Favipiravir

Generic Details

Generic Name

Favipiravir

Other Names

  • Avigan

Drug Class

  • Antiviral

Chemical Formula

C5H4FN3O2

Molecular Weight

157.1 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase

Indications

  • Treatment of influenza viruses, including novel influenza viruses such as COVID-19 (off-label)

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Powder for oral suspension

Typical Dosage

  • 1600 mg twice a day on day 1, followed by 600 mg twice daily for 4 more days

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosing based on weight and age, under supervision

Geriatric Dosage

  • Adjust dosage based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Emotional disorders

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to favipiravir
  • Severe renal impairment

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • No clinically significant interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • Increased incidence of adverse effects

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote, symptomatic and supportive treatment

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
  • Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with renal impairment

Warnings

  • May cause embryofetal toxicity