Are you aware of Molnupiravir (LAGEVRIO) tablets for COVID-19?

With the COVID-19 pandemic, we're always asking about new medications, aren't we? Perhaps you or someone in your family has been prescribed a drug called Molnupiravir by your doctor. The brand name for this drug is LAGEVRIO. So today, let's talk about exactly what this drug is for, how it's used, and what we need to be especially careful about when taking it.

Simply put, what is Molnupiravir?

Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug. That is, it controls the multiplication or spread of a virus in the body. It is used specifically for patients infected with COVID-19 .

The main purpose of this medicine is to prevent the COVID-19 disease from becoming severe. That is, to reduce the severe symptoms that can occur due to the disease and reduce the risk of hospitalization.

Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication

For your safety, it is important to discuss the following with your doctor before starting this medication. Do not ignore these, as they can directly affect your health.

• Any allergies you have: That is, if you have an allergy to this Molnupiravir medicine, any other medicine, food, dyes, or preservatives.
• Other serious illnesses: Any other long-term medical conditions you have (e.g. kidney disease, liver disease).
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or have any concerns, it is important to tell your doctor. This is very important.
• Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child, inform the doctor about this as well.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

To get the most out of a medication, it is very important to use it as directed.

• Swallow this capsule whole with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew the capsule.
• Try to take your medicine at the same time every day, exactly as your doctor prescribed.
• You can take this before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach discomfort or heartburn, it is best to take it after a meal.
• Most importantly: Take the medicine for the full number of days your doctor prescribed it for. Don't stop taking it because your symptoms have subsided. It is important to complete the full course of medication to completely control the virus.

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

Missing a dose of medication is something that can happen to anyone. If that happens, don't worry.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• However, if it is less than 10 hours until your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and just take your next dose at the scheduled time.
• Never take two doses of medicine at once to make up for a missed dose.

Let's also learn about side effects.

Like any medicine, Molnupiravir can cause some side effects. It is important to be aware of these.

Very important! Special attention to pregnancy and breastfeeding

This is the most important part that we all need to be aware of when talking about this medicine.

For women:

• Be careful not to get pregnant while you are taking this medicine and for 4 days after you stop taking it.
• Be sure to use a reliable birth control method during this time.
• This is emphasized so strongly because this medicine has the potential for serious harm to the development of the unborn child.
• If you are expecting or suspect you are pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

For men:

• This advice is not just for women. Men should also be aware of this.
• If you are taking this medicine, avoid conceiving a child while taking the medicine and for 3 months after stopping the medicine .
• If you have sex with your partner during this time, it is very important to use a reliable method of birth control (e.g., condoms).

For breastfeeding mothers:

• Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are taking this medicine and for 4 days after stopping the medicine .

If you have any questions, concerns, or doubts about these matters, please speak openly with your doctor.

How do you store and dispose of medication?

• Storage: Store the tablets at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius) in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets . Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
• Disposal: It is important to dispose of expired or unused medicines properly. You can ask your doctor or hospital about how to dispose of them. If this is not possible, take the capsules out of the container, mix them with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, put them in a sealable bag, and throw them in the trash. Never flush medicines down the toilet.

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