Lagevrio (Molnupiravir)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Lagevrio Used For?
Lagevrio is an antiviral medication that contains molnupiravir as its active ingredient. It has provisional approval for treating COVID-19 in specific patient populations.
Primary Uses
Lagevrio is used to treat coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in adults who are at increased risk for hospitalization or death. It may help you feel better and stay out of the hospital.
How It Works
Lagevrio is an antiviral drug that works against the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS CoV-2).
Provisional Approval: This medicine has provisional approval based on available data. More evidence is being collected to fully confirm its benefits and safety.
How to Take Lagevrio
Take Lagevrio exactly as your doctor tells you. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment and not miss doses.
Dosage Instructions
Take 4 capsules of Lagevrio every 12 hours (for example, at 8 am and at 8 pm). Take Lagevrio every day for 5 days. You can take it with or without food.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If it has been less than 10 hours since the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it has been more than 10 hours since the missed dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you’re not sure what to do.
Important: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. It’s important not to miss or skip doses of this medicine.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- dizziness
- itching
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- hives
- rapid heartbeat
- trouble swallowing or breathing
- swelling of mouth, lips or face
- throat tightness
- hoarseness
- skin rash
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations before taking Lagevrio, especially regarding pregnancy and certain medical conditions.
Who Should Not Take Lagevrio
Do not take Lagevrio if you are allergic to molnupiravir or any of the ingredients listed in the medication information.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take any other medicines, have any allergies, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Lagevrio is not recommended in pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects to unborn animals. If there’s a chance you might be pregnant, discuss having a pregnancy test with your doctor. Use effective birth control while taking Lagevrio and for 4 days after the last dose. Males who are sexually active with partners who could become pregnant should use reliable contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for 4 days after the last dose.
Pregnancy Warning: This medication is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby based on animal studies.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you’re taking, as some may interfere with Lagevrio.
Check with Healthcare Provider: Some medicines may interfere with Lagevrio and affect how it works. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure about interactions.
- medicines
- vitamins
- supplements bought without prescription
Alcohol & Driving
While specific alcohol and driving restrictions aren’t detailed in the source material, dizziness is a common side effect that could affect your ability to drive safely.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Since dizziness is a common side effect, be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Storage
Store Lagevrio in the original bottle in a cool dry place below 30°C, away from heat or sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Keep it where young children cannot reach it.
Overdose Information
If you think you have taken too much Lagevrio, you may need urgent medical attention. Immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26), call your doctor or pharmacist, or go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need to take Lagevrio for exactly 5 days, taking 4 capsules every 12 hours. It’s important to complete the full course even if you start feeling better.
Yes, you can take Lagevrio with or without food. Take it whichever way is more convenient for you.
If it’s been less than 10 hours since your missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s been more than 10 hours, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
No, do not stop taking Lagevrio without talking to your doctor first. It’s important to complete the full 5-day course of treatment.
No, Lagevrio is not recommended during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects to unborn animals. If you might be pregnant, discuss having a pregnancy test with your doctor before starting treatment.
The most common side effects of Lagevrio are diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness. These are usually minor and temporary.
Yes, tell any doctor, dentist, or pharmacist you visit that you are taking Lagevrio and follow their advice.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.