Leritrelvir
Antiviral medication
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Leritrelvir is an antiviral drug that is used in the treatment of COVID-19. It is a component of the combination therapy marketed under the brand name Paxlovid, which also includes the drug ritonavir.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Leritrelvir functions as a protease inhibitor. Specifically, it targets the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, also known as 3CLpro, which is essential for the viral replication process. By inhibiting this protease, leritrelvir prevents the virus from processing its polyprotein precursors, thereby halting viral replication within the host cells.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
Leritrelvir is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients who are at high risk for progression to severe disease, including hospitalization or death. It is administered orally in combination with ritonavir, which acts as a pharmacokinetic enhancer by inhibiting the metabolism of leritrelvir, thereby increasing its plasma concentration and effectiveness.
Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]
Leritrelvir is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma concentrations within a few hours of administration. The presence of ritonavir significantly increases the half-life of leritrelvir, allowing for twice-daily dosing. The drug is primarily metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of leritrelvir include dysgeusia (altered taste), diarrhea, and headache. As with any medication, there is a potential for allergic reactions, and patients should be monitored for signs of hypersensitivity.
Development and Approval[edit | edit source]
Leritrelvir was developed in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic as part of efforts to provide effective oral antiviral treatments. It received emergency use authorization from various regulatory agencies worldwide, including the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to address the urgent need for COVID-19 therapeutics.
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