remdesivir

What is the most important information I should know about remdesivir?

What is remdesivir?

Remdesivir is used to treat adults and children at least 28 days and older who weigh at least 7 pounds (3 kilograms) with positive results for COVID-19 who are:

• in a hospital; or
• not in a hospital and have mild-to-moderate COVID-19, and are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.

Remdesivir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving remdesivir?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease; or
• kidney disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of remdesivir on the baby.

How is remdesivir given?

Your doctor will perform blood tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely using remdesivir.

Remdesivir is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take 30 to 120 minutes to complete.

If you are hospitalized: remdesivir is usually given once per day for up to 10 days.

If you are not hospitalized: remdesivir is usually given once per day for 3 days.

You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function.

You must remain under the care of a doctor while you are being treated with remdesivir for COVID-19.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive remdesivir in a clinical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, you will be treated quickly if an overdose occurs.

What should I avoid while receiving remdesivir?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of remdesivir?

• severe headache, pounding in your neck or ears;
• fast, slow, or pounding heartbeats;
• wheezing, trouble breathing;
• swelling in your face;
• nausea;
• fever, chills, or shivering;
• itching, sweating; or
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

Common side effects may include:

• nausea; or
• abnormal liver function tests.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect remdesivir?

Tell your doctor if you also take chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine. Either of these other medicines could make remdesivir less effective.

Other drugs may affect remdesivir, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor can provide more information about remdesivir.