Fapilavir

Fapilavir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fapilavir is a brand name. Its generic name is Favipiravir.

Introduction

Fapilavir (brand name Avigan) is an antiviral medication developed by Toyama Chemical, a subsidiary of Fujifilm, for the treatment of influenza. It was approved for medical use in Japan in March 2014, and for emergency use in the United States in 2020.

Uses

Fapilavir is indicated for potential use in the treatment of serious or life-threatening infection of the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in adults and adolescents over the age of 12 with confirmed or suspected COVID-19.

Mechanism of Action

Fapilavir inhibits viral replication by acting as a viral RNA polymerase inhibitor. It prevents the virus from replicating inside cells by selectively inhibiting the activity of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, an enzyme required for viral replication.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effects of favipiravir can be felt within hours of the first dose, though it is unclear how long it takes for the drug to reach its full potential.

Absorption

Fapilavir is well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and has a bioavailability of over 99% following oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Fapilavir is rapidly and extensively metabolized, and is mainly excreted in the urine and feces as metabolites.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of favipiravir is a 800 mg loading dose on the first day followed by 600 mg twice daily for 14 days.

Administration

Fapilavir should be taken orally with or without food.

Side Effects

Side effects of favipiravir include diarrhea, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and abdominal pain.

Toxicity

No studies have been conducted in humans to evaluate the potential toxicity of favipiravir.

Precautions

Fapilavir should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment, as the drug is metabolized by these organs.

Interactions

Fapilavir may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine.

Disease Interactions

Fapilavir is not recommended for patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.

Drug Interactions

Fapilavir may interact with other drugs, including anticoagulants, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine.

Food Interactions

Fapilavir is not known to interact with food.

Pregnancy Use

Fapilavir has not been studied in pregnant women. It is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

Lactation Use

Fapilavir is not recommended for use in nursing mothers, as its safety during breastfeeding has not been established.

Acute Overdose

The signs and symptoms of favipiravir overdose include nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Contraindication

Fapilavir is not recommended for patients who are hypersensitive to the medication or its components.

Use Direction

Fapilavir should be taken orally as directed, with or without food. It is important to take the medication as prescribed to obtain maximum therapeutic benefit.

Storage Condition

Fapilavir should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of favipiravir is 0.5-1 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of favipiravir is 3-4 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of favipiravir is 0.2-0.4 L/h/kg.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fapilavir

What is Fapilavir?

Fapilavir is an antiviral medication used to treat certain influenza (flu) viruses. It is a pyrazinecarboxamide derivative and was approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2014 for the treatment of new and re-emerging influenza viruses.

Is Fapilavir approved for use in humans?

Yes, Fapilavir has been approved for use in humans by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

What viruses does Fapilavir treat?

Fapilavir is approved for the treatment of influenza viruses, including the 2009 H1N1 virus and certain other new and re-emerging influenza viruses.

How does Fapilavir work?

Fapilavir works by interfering with the growth and development of the influenza virus. Specifically, the drug prevents the virus from replicating and spreading once it has entered cells.

Is Fapilavir safe for human consumption?

Yes, Fapilavir has been approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for use in humans and no serious side effects have been reported in clinical trials.

How is Fapilavir administered?

Fapilavir is available as an oral tablet and can be taken with or without food. It should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day with a gap of 12 hours between doses.

How long does it take for Fapilavir to work?

Fapilavir typically starts working within 24 hours of starting the medication. Most people experience an improvement in symptoms within 3 days.

Does Fapilavir have any side effects?

The most common side effects of Fapilavir are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and itching. Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Who should not take Fapilavir?

Fapilavir should not be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children under the age of 18. Additionally, people with kidney or liver impairment or any allergies to pyrazinamide should not take Fapilavir.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Fapilavir?

If you miss a dose of Fapilavir, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, provided that it is not too close to the next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Is Fapilavir available over the counter?

No, Fapilavir is classified as a prescription medication and is only available with a valid doctor's prescription.

Can Fapilavir be used to prevent influenza?

No, Fapilavir is intended only for the treatment of influenza. It should not be used as a preventative measure against the flu.

Is Fapilavir the same as Tamiflu?

No, Fapilavir and Tamiflu are two different types of antiviral medications. Fapilavir is approved for use in the treatment of influenza, while Tamiflu is approved for the prevention and treatment of the flu.

What is the generic name for Fapilavir?

The generic name for Fapilavir is Fapilavir sodium.

What is the cost of Fapilavir?

The cost of Fapilavir will depend on the quantity and dosage form being purchased, as well as your location. It is recommended that you contact your local pharmacy to determine the exact cost.

Is Fapilavir available in other countries?

Yes, Fapilavir is approved for use in certain countries such as India, Russia, and China. It is also available in some parts of Europe and North America, but is not yet approved by the FDA in these regions.

Does Fapilavir cure the flu?

Fapilavir is a medication used to treat certain strains of influenza virus, including the 2009 H1N1 virus and certain other new and re-emerging influenza viruses. It is not a cure for the flu, but may help reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of illness.

Does Fapilavir have any interactions with other medications?

Fapilavir may interact with certain other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting treatment with Fapilavir.

Can Fapilavir be used with other antivirals?

Yes, Fapilavir can be used in combination with other antivirals such as Oseltamivir or Zanamivir. However, it is important to contact your doctor before taking any combination of antiviral medications.

Who manufactures Fapilavir?

Fapilavir is manufactured by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation in Japan.

What is the optimal dosage of Fapilavir?

The optimal dosage of Fapilavir will depend on your age, weight, and condition. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor.

Is Fapilavir used for other infections besides influenza?

Fapilavir is currently only approved for the treatment of influenza. However, there is some ongoing research into its potential use for the treatment of other viral infections such as hepatitis C and Ebola.

When should I seek medical attention for influenza?

You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: chest pain, difficulty breathing, extreme dizziness, confusion, severe headaches, or high fever.

How long does it take for Fapilavir to start working?

Fapilavir typically begins working within 24 hours of starting the medication. Most people experience an improvement in symptoms within 3 days.