Simnotrelvir/ritonavir

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Simnotrelvir/ritonavir[edit | edit source]

Simnotrelvir chemical structure

Simnotrelvir/ritonavir is a combination antiviral medication used in the treatment of COVID-19. It consists of two active ingredients: simnotrelvir and ritonavir. This combination is designed to inhibit the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Simnotrelvir is a protease inhibitor that targets the main protease (Mpro) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. By inhibiting this enzyme, simnotrelvir prevents the virus from processing its polyproteins, which are essential for viral replication and maturation.

Ritonavir chemical structure

Ritonavir, on the other hand, is primarily used as a pharmacokinetic enhancer. It inhibits the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme, which is responsible for the metabolism of many drugs, including simnotrelvir. By inhibiting this enzyme, ritonavir increases the plasma concentration of simnotrelvir, thereby enhancing its antiviral activity.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Simnotrelvir/ritonavir 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. The combination is administered orally and is typically prescribed for a five-day course.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of simnotrelvir/ritonavir include diarrhea, nausea, and altered taste. As with any medication, there is a risk of allergic reactions, and patients should be monitored for signs of hypersensitivity.

Drug Interactions[edit | edit source]

Due to ritonavir's role as a CYP3A4 inhibitor, simnotrelvir/ritonavir can interact with a wide range of medications. It is important to review a patient's medication list for potential interactions before initiating therapy.

Development and Approval[edit | edit source]

Simnotrelvir/ritonavir was developed in response to the urgent need for effective treatments for COVID-19. The combination has undergone clinical trials to assess its safety and efficacy, leading to emergency use authorizations in several countries.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD