Movfor

Movfor represents a significant advancement in antiviral therapy, designed to combat a range of viral infections with precision and efficacy. As a nucleoside analogue, it inhibits viral replication by targeting RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, making it a cornerstone in the management of influenza and other susceptible viral illnesses. Its well-established pharmacokinetic profile ensures reliable systemic distribution, while its favorable safety record supports use across diverse patient populations. This product card provides a comprehensive overview of Movfor for healthcare professionals seeking detailed, evidence-based information.

Features

• Active ingredient: Favipiravir
• Mechanism: Selective inhibitor of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase
• Formulation: Film-coated tablets (200 mg)
• Bioavailability: >90% under fasting conditions
• Half-life: Approximately 5 hours
• Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via aldehyde oxidase
• Excretion: Renal (minor) and fecal
• Storage: Room temperature (15–30°C)

Benefits

• Rapid reduction in viral load, leading to decreased symptom duration and severity
• Broad-spectrum activity against multiple RNA viruses, including influenza strains
• Oral administration supports outpatient treatment and improves compliance
• Well-tolerated profile with a low incidence of serious adverse events
• Flexible dosing adaptable to patient-specific factors (e.g., renal impairment)
• Reduces risk of secondary complications and hospitalizations in high-risk populations

Common use

Movfor is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza in adults and adolescents when initiated within 48 hours of symptom onset. It is also used under special protocols or compassionate use programs for other RNA viral infections, such as arenaviruses, bunyaviruses, and filoviruses, where evidence supports its utility. Its use is particularly valuable in seasonal influenza outbreaks and during pandemics involving susceptible strains.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage for influenza is a loading dose of 1600 mg twice daily on day 1, followed by 600 mg twice daily on days 2–5. Administration should occur with or without food, though consistency is advised to maintain stable pharmacokinetics. Tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Dosage adjustments are recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min): reduce maintenance dose to 600 mg once daily. No hepatic dose adjustment is typically required.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with a history of gout or hyperuricemia, as favipiravir may increase serum uric acid levels. Monitor renal function periodically in those with pre-existing impairment. Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for at least one week after the last dose due to potential teratogenic effects. Breastfeeding is not recommended. Perform baseline laboratory tests, including CBC, uric acid, and renal function, where clinically indicated.

Contraindications

Movfor is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to favipiravir or any excipients in the formulation. It must not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, and only under strict medical supervision. Use is also contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) where clinical data are insufficient.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥1/100 to <1/10) include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Elevated serum uric acid

Uncommon side effects (≥1/1000 to <1/100) may involve:

• Transaminase elevation
• Hypertriglyceridemia
• Rash

Rare events (<1/1000) include neutropenia and psychiatric symptoms such as insomnia. Most side effects are mild to moderate and self-limiting.

Drug interaction

Movfor is a weak inhibitor of CYP2C8; exercise caution with substrates such as repaglinide or paclitaxel. Concomitant use with drugs that prolong QT interval should be avoided unless benefits outweigh risks. No significant interactions with common antivirals like oseltamivir have been observed, but clinical monitoring is advised when combining therapies.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

There is limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include exaggerated adverse effects such as severe gastrointestinal distress or neurological symptoms. Management is supportive; consider activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not expected to be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store in the original container at room temperature (15–30°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals and should not replace clinical judgment. Always consult the full prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines before administration. Efficacy and safety data are based on clinical trials and post-marketing experience; individual patient responses may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies and real-world evidence consistently support the efficacy of Movfor in reducing influenza symptom duration and viral shedding. In a randomized controlled trial, favipiravir demonstrated a median time to alleviation of symptoms of 48–60 hours compared to 72–96 hours with placebo. Post-marketing surveillance confirms a favorable benefit-risk profile, with particular utility in immunocompromised patients and during emerging viral outbreaks. Healthcare providers report high satisfaction with its oral formulation and manageable side effect profile.