About favipiravir
Antiviral RNA polymerase inhibitor
Used for
- Treatment of influenza when approved alternatives are ineffective or unsuitable in some countries.
- Authorized for COVID-19 in some countries; evidence and recommendations vary.
Usual adult dose
Influenza regimens vary by country; a commonly studied course is 1,600 mg twice on day one, then 600 mg twice daily for four days.
Common side effects
- Raised uric acid
- Diarrhea
- Raised liver enzymes
- Nausea
Important warnings
- Can cause serious birth defects; avoid during pregnancy and follow strict pregnancy-prevention measures.
- Can harm sperm; men should use condoms and avoid pregnancy during treatment and afterward as directed.
- May increase uric acid; use caution with gout or high uric acid.
- Use only under the applicable national authorization and clinical guidance.
Pregnancy
Contraindicated because it may cause birth defects; pregnancy testing and effective contraception are required under many authorizations.
Breastfeeding
Avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for the period specified by local product guidance.
Interactions
- Pyrazinamide may further increase uric acid.
- Theophylline can increase favipiravir levels.
- Repaglinide levels may rise.
- Favipiravir may affect metabolism of some medicines; check the full medication list.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.