Molnupiravir is a valuable addition to the portfolio of oral therapies available for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. The drug has been given emergency use authorization by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on 28th December, 2021 as the anti-viral COVID-19 pill. The drug is currently approved for the treatment of adult patients with COVID-19 and SpO2 >93% and those who are at high risk of disease progression. 

Molnupiravir (MK-4482, EIDD-2801) was initially developed to treat influenza, and is a repurposed oral antiviral option to treat COVID-19 patients. It is an antiviral pill that acts by affecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus’ genetic code that prevents the further replication of the virus. 

The recommended dose of the drug is 800 mg twice daily for 5 days. The duration of treatment of Molnupiravir is much shorter compared to other therapies which is a significant benefit as it reduces the pill burden and improves compliance. 

It has been reported to be safe and effective, based on which the regulators (USFDA) have authorized the use of Molnupiravir in individuals with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 and have at least one risk factor for developing serious illness. The risk factors mentioned are obesity, older age (>60 years), diabetes mellitus or heart disease. 

Resources 1.    Sheriff MK. Explained: What is Molnupiravir, the Covid-19 pill approved by India? The Indian Express. December 28, 2021. Available from: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/Molnupiravir-covid-19-india-7694303/. Accessed January 5, 2022.2.    DCGI issues EUA to launch Merck’s COVID-19 pill in India. BioSpectrum.  December 29, 2021. Available from: https://www.biospectrumindia.com/news/22/20271/dcgi-issues-eua-to-launch-mercks-covid-19-pill-in-india.html. Accessed January 5, 2022.