Ensitrelvir

Antiviral drug for COVID-19

Ensitrelvir
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Ensitrelvir, marketed under the brand name Xocova, is an antiviral drug developed for the treatment of COVID-19. It is a protease inhibitor that targets the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mechanism of Action

Ensitrelvir functions by inhibiting the main protease (Mpro) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This protease is essential for the viral replication process, as it cleaves the viral polyprotein into functional units necessary for the virus to replicate and assemble. By blocking this protease, ensitrelvir effectively halts the replication of the virus within the host cells.

Development and Approval

Ensitrelvir was developed by Shionogi & Co., a Japanese pharmaceutical company. The drug was part of a global effort to find effective treatments for COVID-19, alongside other antiviral agents such as remdesivir and molnupiravir.

In clinical trials, ensitrelvir demonstrated efficacy in reducing viral load in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. The drug received emergency use authorization in Japan, where it is primarily used.

Dosage and Administration

Ensitrelvir is administered orally in the form of tablets. The recommended dosage and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health status. It is important for patients to follow the prescribed regimen to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ensitrelvir include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. Some patients may also experience headaches or dizziness. Severe side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions or liver enzyme abnormalities.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research is focused on evaluating the long-term efficacy and safety of ensitrelvir, as well as its effectiveness against emerging variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Studies are also being conducted to assess the potential of ensitrelvir in combination with other antiviral agents to enhance treatment outcomes.

Related pages

• COVID-19 pandemic
• Antiviral drug
• SARS-CoV-2
• Protease inhibitor