Molnupiravir for COVID-19 disease

About molnupiravir

Molnupiravir is an antiviral agent that works by combining with viral RNA to stop the virus particles from replicating. If a virus can't replicate it won't be able to infect other cells in the body and the infection won't spread as quickly. Molnupiravir can reduce the severity of viral infections such as COVID-19.

Molnupiravir is used for adults who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have at least one risk factor for severe disease. Taking molnupiravir as soon as possible once COVID-19 symptoms have started can lower your risk of being severely ill or requiring hospitalisation.

People at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease include those with medical conditions such as long-term heart, lung, liver, kidney or nerve problems, people with diabetes and people with weakened immune systems.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking molnupiravir it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The manufacturer's leaflet will give you more information about molnupiravir and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• The usual dose of molnupiravir is four capsules (800 mg) taken every twelve hours for five days. Make sure you complete the course even if you are feeling better.

• Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not open, crush or chew the capsules.

• It is not important whether you take molnupiravir capsules before or after food.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. In which case, leave out the forgotten dose and take your next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

• Treatment with molnupiravir should be started within the first five days of COVID-19 symptoms or as soon as possible after a positive COVID-19 test result.

• Make sure you complete the full course of treatment even if you start to feel better or do not feel unwell.

• Help your body fight the infection by drinking plenty of water, eating sensibly and getting plenty of rest.

• The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is through vaccination. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date in line with national guidance.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with molnupiravir. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.