Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

Molnupiravir is an antiviral medication which may be used for treatment of mild-moderate COVID-19 in adults (≥18 years old) who are at increased risk of progressing to severe COVID-19. It should be administered within 5 days from the start of your symptoms.

How should I take or use this medication?

The usual dosage in adult patients is 800 mg (four 200 mg capsules) taken every 12 hours for 5 days, with or without food. Complete this 5-day course even if you feel better. 
 

Molnupiravir should not be used for longer than 5 consecutive days because its safety and efficacy of use for longer than 5 consecutive days have not been established. 
 

If you do not feel better, or if you feel worse during or after the course of 5 days, you should see your doctor. 
 

Capsules should be swallowed whole and are not to be opened, broken, or crushed.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If a dose is missed within 10 hours of the time it is usually taken, take it as soon as possible and take your next dose at the usual timing. 
 

If you miss a dose by more than 10 hours, skip the dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Based on findings from animal reproduction studies, Molnupiravir may be harmful to the foetus when it is consumed by pregnant individuals. Therefore, Molnupiravir is not recommended for use during pregnancy. 
  • If you can become pregnant, you should use effective birth control during the course of Molnupiravir and for 4 days after last dose
  • If you are a male who is sexually active with a female of childbearing potential, to use effective birth control during the course of Molnupiravir and for at least 3 months after the last dose of molnupiravir
  • Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for 4 days after the last dose of Molnupiravir

Molnupiravir is not authorised for use in patients under 18 years of age because it may affect bone and cartilage growth. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Diarrhoea 
• Nausea 
• Dizziness 

Contact your doctor if you have any side effects which bother you or do not go away. 

These may not be all the possible side effects of Monulpiravir as it is still being studied. It is possible that all of the risks are not known at this time. Serious and unexpected side effects may occur. 

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

It is important to check with your healthcare provider on any potential drug interactions. You need to report to your doctor the use of any prescription, non-prescription medication or herbal products. Always discuss with your healthcare provider first prior to starting any new medications while on Molnupiravir. 

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack the medication into a bag and bring it back to the pharmacy where you received the medication from.
 

Disclaimer

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
 

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
 

Last updated in May 2022.