What is Favipiravir: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Use and Development

Recently, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has launched Favipiravir, a promising antiviral drug, under the brand name FabiFlu, in India at a price of approximately Rs 103 per tablet. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the drug, its dosage, manufacturing, and its significance in treating mild to moderate coronavirus infection.

The Drug and Its Manufacturer

Favipiravir, sold under the brand name Avigan, is an antiviral medication originally used in Japan to treat influenza. It is manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a reputable drug firm. Avigan has now been repurposed to explore its potential in treating other viral infections, including cases of COVID-19.

Pharmaceutical Details and Dosage

The drug is currently available as 9 tablets of 3600mg dosage. The typical dosage for treating mild to moderate coronavirus infection begins with taking 200mg twice a day on Day 1. From Day 2 to Day 14, the dosage reduces to 1600mg per day, equivalent to 4 tablets taken twice a day. It is essential to follow the recommended dosage and take Favipiravir along with supportive care to enhance recovery.

Price and Availability

The medication comes at a Manufacturer's Recommended Price (MRP) of INR 3500 for a pack of 34 tablets, which translates to about INR 103 per tablet. The drug is available for purchase through hospitals and retail chemists across India.

Manufacturing and Distribution

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has taken a strategic decision to produce Favipiravir at their Baddi facility, enabling backward integration with internally synthesized Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API). This ensures a reliable and quick production process, making the drug available in parts of the country closer to the manufacturing unit and nationwide within a week.

Discovering Drugs to Treat Corona

The development of Favipiravir is part of a larger effort to discover effective antiviral substances for the treatment of coronavirus. The drug's ability to combat RNA viruses is particularly noteworthy, as RNA viruses, including many viral infections like influenza, can be challenging to target with existing treatments. However, the true efficacy of Favipiravir in treating coronavirus will only be determined through ongoing clinical trials.

Conclusion

Favipiravir, with its potential to treat various viral infections, including coronavirus, is an exciting development in the field of antiviral medication. Its introduction by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, along with its rigorous manufacturing and distribution process, positions it well to offer potential relief to patients suffering from mild to moderate coronavirus symptoms. As research and clinical trials continue, it remains to be seen how effective Favipiravir will be in combating the virus.