Biofavi
Favipiravir INN 200 mg
COMPOSITION
- Biofavi 200 mg Tablet: Each film-coated Tablet contains Favipiravir INN 200 mg.
PHARMACOLOGY
Favipiravir is a prodrug that is metabolized to its active form, favipiravir-ribofuranosyl-5'-triphosphate (favipiravir-RTP), Favipiravir is a pyrazinecarboxamide derivative with activity against RNA viruses. Favipiravir is converted to the ribofuranosyltriphosphate derivative by host enzymes and selectively inhibits the influenza viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
The mechanism of its actions is thought to be related to the selective inhibition of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Other research suggests that Favipiravir induces lethal RNA transversion mutations, producing a nonviable viral phenotype. Favipiravir is a prodrug that is metabolized to its active form, favipiravir-ribofuranosyl-5'-triphosphate (favipiravir-RTP), available in both oral and intravenous formulations. Human hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) is believed to play a key role in this activation process. Favipiravir does not inhibit RNA or DNA synthesis in mammalian cells and is not toxic to them. In 2014, favipiravir was approved in Japan for stockpiling against influenza pandemics. However, favipiravir has not been shown to be effective in primary human airway cells, casting doubt on its efficacy in influenza treatment.
INDICATION
Favipiravir has shown activity against influenza viruses, West Nile virus, yellow fever virus, foot-and-mouth disease virus as well as other flaviviruses, arenaviruses, bunyaviruses, and alphaviruses. Activity against enteroviruses and Rift Valley fever virus has also been demonstrated. Favipiravir has shown limited efficacy against the Zika virus in animal studies but was less effective than other antivirals such as MK-608. The agent has also shown some efficacy against rabies and has been used experimentally in some humans infected with the virus.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
In the first step: the Favipiravir tablet is orally administered. This drug will be given twice daily for a 10-day period. For the first day, the dosage is 1600 mg twice daily. Starting from the second day, the dosage is 600 mg twice daily.
In the second step: the Favipiravir tablet is orally administered. This drug will be given twice daily for a 10-day period. For the first day, the dosage is 1800 mg twice daily. Starting from the second day, the dosage is 800 mg twice daily.
CONTRAINDICATION AND PRECAUTION
In repeat-dose toxicity studies involving dogs, rats, and monkeys, notable findings after administration of oral favipiravir included: adverse effects on hematopoietic tissues such as decreased red blood cell (RBC) production, and increases in liver function parameters such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and total bilirubin, and increased vacuolization in hepatocytes. Testis toxicity was also noted.
SIDE EFFECTS
- Favipiravir is well tolerated and has no serious side effects
USE IN PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
- Favipiravir is known to be teratogenic; therefore, administration of favipiravir should be avoided in women if pregnancy is confirmed or suspected.
STORAGE CONDITION
- Keep at a cool (below 30 degrees C) and dry place, protected from light and moisture.
HOW SUPPLIED
- Biofavi Tablet: Each box contains 2 alu-alu blisters of 20 tablets.
