COVID-19 has been raging for the past year and doesn’t seem like it is going away anytime soon. Work from homes, online classes, online movie releases and the unfortunate loss of near and dear ones, the world as we know it has changed drastically in this one year. Now with the onset of the second wave things are looking far from ideal, the number of Covid cases have spiked at an unprecedented rate, a return to the normal is still a dream .

In this article we’ll be taking a glimpse at Fabiflu, Glenmark’s magic tablet that is used extensively in the treatment of COVID-19 affected patients.
 

What is Fabiflu?

The antiviral drug Favipiravir is sold by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals under the brand name Fabiflu. It is currently used to treat a number of viral infections, now including the novel coronavirus. It was approved for treating Covid-19 by the Government of India in 2020 making it the first drug to be officially sanctioned to treat people affected by COVID-19.

Medical Uses

As aforementioned, FabiFlu is used to treat adult patients with mild to moderate symptoms of Covid-19. In patients with mild or moderate covid symptoms, treatment using Fabiflu has shown above 88 per cent improvement.

The drug Favipiravir was originally used in Japan to treat novel influenza viruses. It works effectively against RNA viruses such as Vanyaviruses, Arenaviruses and Filoviruses.

How does Fabiflu work?

Favipiravir is a prodrug, meaning that it is metabolized into its active form after consuming it. The exact mechanism is unclear, however is thought to be due to selective inhibition of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. 

It acts as a nucleoside analogue after metabolising. This then causes a lethal mutagenesis in vitro causing it to act a virucidal, thus killing and preventing the multiplication of the virus in the body.

Side-Effects of Fabiflu

Side-Effects of Fabiflu include diarrhea, increased uric acid in the body, altered white blood cell count, increased enzyme production in the liver.

These should normally go away on their own. If the side effects seem to persist, get medical help as soon as possible. Overall Fabiflu has a good safety profile.

Should you take Fabiflu?

Consider the following factors before taking Fabiflu:

1. If you suffer from severe Kidney or liver issues you should not take it.
2. If you have any metabolic issues.
3. Taking Fabiflu during pregnancy can harm the baby.
4. You should not consume it if you are breastfeeding.
5. If you are allergic to it.

You should inform your doctor beforehand if you have any of the above risks. Do not take the tablet unless prescribed by your doctor. Over the counter sale of Fabiflu is prohibited by law.

How is Fabiflu administered?

Fabiflu is an oral medication, available in tablet form. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of medication depending on your conditions. 

The tablet is to be swallowed as a whole, without chewing or crushing it. In case you miss a dose, have it as soon as you can but ensure you don't double dose.

Generally the treatment lasts anywhere from 2 to 14 days. Only patients between the age of 18 and 75 are approved for the treatment. Administration of the drug necessitates a consent form by the patient. 

It can be administered safely in patients suffering from diabetes or heart diseases as well.

Where can you buy it from?

You can buy Fabiflu at good rates from our online store. It is sold in packs of 34 tablets and each tablet has a strength of 200mg. Click here to know more.