Favipiravir 200mg

Favipiravir 200mg — Uses and Benefits

Favipiravir 200mg is used mainly for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 infection in adults, under medical supervision.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in adults
• Used only when prescribed by a doctor, usually early in the illness

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks an enzyme (RNA polymerase) that the virus needs to copy itself
• This slows down viral multiplication and helps the body's immune system control the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for severe or critical COVID-19 requiring hospitalisation/oxygen support unless specifically advised
• Not effective against bacterial infections
• Not a substitute for vaccination or general infection prevention measures
• Not recommended for routine use in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Not a treatment for common cold, flu caused by other viruses, or other unrelated illnesses

How to Use Favipiravir 200mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually a higher loading dose on day one followed by a lower dose for the remaining days
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking it at the same times each day helps maintain steady levels
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better
• Drink plenty of fluids during treatment

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss more than one dose, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack until it is time to take it
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Favipiravir 200mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Increased blood uric acid levels
• Vomiting
• Reduced appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Abnormal liver enzyme levels
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Fatigue

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reaction, blistering or peeling skin
• Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing
• Severe abdominal pain
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Favipiravir 200mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision, typically after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy (risk of harm to the unborn baby)
• Are breastfeeding
• Are allergic to favipiravir or any of its ingredients
• Are a child or adolescent, unless specifically advised by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have gout or high uric acid levels
• Have a history of heart rhythm problems
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines
• Are planning to become pregnant soon after treatment (effective contraception is advised during and for some time after treatment for both men and women)

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Repaglinide and certain other diabetes medicines
• Pyrazinamide (used for tuberculosis) — may increase uric acid levels further
• Theophylline
• Other drugs affecting liver function

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine without a doctor's prescription?

No, this medicine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor after proper diagnosis.

Will this medicine cure COVID-19 completely on its own?

It helps reduce viral multiplication and may shorten illness duration, but recovery also depends on rest, hydration, and supportive care as advised.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol during treatment as it may increase the risk of liver-related side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.