Remdesivir

What is remdesivir?

Remdesivir (brand name Veklury®) is an antiviral medication used to treat COVID-19. It is typically given in hospital to people who are at high risk of becoming seriously ill, or who are already hospitalised and need help recovering. Remdesivir is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion and is not available for use at home[1]. 

What is remdesivir used to treat?

Remdesivir is used to manage COVID-19 by[1]: 

• Treating early infection in people at risk of progressing to severe illness 

• Supporting recovery in hospitalised patients, particularly those needing oxygen therapy 

It is not usually used for patients who are unlikely to survive or those who present more than 10 days after symptoms began, unless they are severely immunocompromised. 

How does remdesivir work?

Remdesivir helps the body fight COVID-19 by[1]: 

• Blocking the replication of the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) 

• Preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading 

• Supporting the immune system’s ability to control the infection 

This can help reduce symptom severity and shorten recovery time. 

Who can take remdesivir?

Remdesivir can be given to adults and children, though younger patients will be treated under specialist care. Speak to your doctor first if you[1]: 

• Have a known allergy to remdesivir or any of its ingredients (such as betadex sulfobutyl ether sodium) 

• Have severe kidney or liver disease 

• Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding (unless your doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks) 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of remdesivir?

The dosage and duration depend on the severity of the illness and your risk factors[1]: 

• Day 1: A loading dose of 200mg by IV infusion 

• Days 2–5: A daily maintenance dose of 100mg 

• Duration: 

• 3 days for early-stage COVID-19 in high-risk patients 

• 5 days for hospitalised patients on oxygen 

• Up to 10 days for severely immunocompromised patients, if advised by a specialist 

How do you take remdesivir?

Remdesivir is only given via intravenous infusion in a hospital setting. Each dose takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours to administer. You will be closely monitored during and after treatment for any side effects or changes in your condition[1]. 

Can you stop taking remdesivir?

This treatment is short-term and managed by your hospital team. If serious side effects develop or your condition improves quickly, your doctor may adjust or stop treatment early[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much remdesivir?

An overdose is unlikely, as remdesivir is given by trained healthcare professionals. However, if too much is given, symptoms may include slow heart rate, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Your care team will monitor and treat any issues immediately[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take remdesivir?

Hospital staff will manage your schedule. If a dose is missed, they will decide whether to reschedule or adjust the course of treatment[1]. 

How do you store remdesivir?

Storage is handled by hospital pharmacies under controlled conditions. The medicine is prepared just before it is given to you and is not kept at home[1]. 

What medicines can’t you take with remdesivir?

Some medicines may interact with remdesivir. Tell your doctor if you are taking[1]: 

• Other antiviral medications 

• Medicines that can affect your kidneys (nephrotoxic drugs) or liver 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of remdesivir?

Most people tolerate remdesivir well, but side effects can happen. Common side effects (in up to 1 in 10 people) include: 

• Headache 

• Nausea or vomiting 

Serious side effects are rare but may include[1]: 

• Slowed heart rate 

• Confusion, chest pain, fainting, or difficulty breathing 

• Liver or kidney issues (may be detected through blood tests) 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about remdesivir

How long does treatment last? 
Typically 3 to 5 days, but up to 10 days in some severely immunocompromised patients[1]. 

Can I receive it at home? 
No, it must be administered in a hospital or clinical setting[1]. 

Is remdesivir safe during pregnancy? 
It is not usually recommended unless a doctor believes it’s necessary[1]. 

Can children receive remdesivir? 
Yes, but only under specialist supervision[1]. 

What if I have kidney or liver problems? 
You may not be eligible – this will be assessed by your doctor[1]. 

Can I take it with my usual medicines? 
Possibly – but some medicines may need to be adjusted. Always inform your care team[1]. 

Does remdesivir cure COVID-19? 
No, but it can reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten recovery time in some people[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to remdesivir, visit their website.