Description
Remdesivir is a broad-spectrum antiviral agent that acts as a nucleotide analog prodrug. It is indicated for the treatment of COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients (=28 days old and weighing =3 kg) who are either hospitalized or not hospitalized but at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death. Remdesivir inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is essential for viral replication in SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. It was the first antiviral granted full FDA approval for COVID-19 treatment.
Fact Table |
Formula | C27H35N6O8P |
License | US FDA (2020), EMA, WHO Emergency Use Listing |
Bioavailability | Low (IV administration required) |
Legal status | Rx-only |
Chemical Name | Remdesivir |
Elimination half-life | ~1 hour (remdesivir); ~25 hours (GS-441524, active metabolite) |
Dosage (Strength) | 200 mg IV on Day 1, then 100 mg IV once daily for 4–9 days |
Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed (limited human data) |
Brands | Veklury |
Protein binding | ~88–93% |
PubChem CID | 121304016 |
MedlinePlus | a620033 |
ChEBI | CHEBI:145994 |
ATC code | J05AB16 |
DrugBank | DB14761 |
KEGG | D11974 |
Routes of administration | Intravenous infusion |
Directions
Remdesivir is administered via intravenous (IV) infusion:
- Day 1: 200 mg IV on day 1
- Days 2–5: 100 mg IV once daily
- May be extended to 10 days based on clinical response (e.g., patients on mechanical ventilation)
- Non-hospitalized patients at high risk (outpatient use):
- 100 mg IV on days 2 and 3
Infusions should be administered over 30–120 minutes. Adjustments or discontinuation may be necessary based on renal or hepatic function.
Ingredients
Remdesivir is supplied as either:
- Lyophilized powder (100 mg per vial)
- Solution for injection (100 mg/20 mL)
Each vial contains:
- Betadex sulfobutyl ether sodium (SBECD; solubilizing agent)
- Water for injection (in liquid formulation)
Reconstitution and dilution are required before IV administration. Final preparation should be performed under sterile conditions.
Contraindications
Remdesivir is contraindicated in patients with:
- Known hypersensitivity to remdesivir or any excipients
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels =10× ULN
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min), for formulations containing SBECD, unless benefits outweigh risks
Cautions
- Hepatotoxicity: Monitor liver function prior to and during treatment. Discontinue if ALT increases significantly or if signs of liver inflammation occur.
- Renal toxicity: Accumulation of SBECD in renal impairment may pose risks; use caution in patients with reduced renal function.
- Infusion-related reactions (hypotension, nausea, diaphoresis, shivering) have been reported.
- Limited data on use in pregnant and lactating women—use only if clearly needed.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST)
Serious adverse effects may include:
- Hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13379