Favipiravir: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Favipiravir is an antiviral medicine. It is a prescription medicine used for influenza and some viral infections. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 4 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Favipiravir works

Favipiravir is converted inside cells into an active form that blocks the RNA polymerase enzyme viruses use to copy their genetic material. It also introduces errors into the viral genes, so the virus cannot multiply effectively.

What is Favipiravir used for?

• Influenza and some viral infections

Favipiravir is an antiviral medicine originally approved in Japan for new or re-emerging strains of influenza when other antivirals do not work. During the COVID-19 pandemic it was used in several countries, including Pakistan, under emergency arrangements. It should be used only when prescribed by a doctor and under medical supervision.

Side effects of Favipiravir

Side effects of Favipiravir are usually mild. The more common ones include:

• Diarrhoea
• Raised uric acid levels
• Nausea
• Raised liver enzymes on blood tests
• Skin rash

Seek urgent medical help if your breathing gets worse, or if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, a severe rash, or swelling of the face or throat.

Precautions and warnings

• Favipiravir can harm an unborn baby, so it must not be taken during pregnancy; women who could become pregnant need a pregnancy test and effective contraception, and men should also use contraception during and after treatment.
• Do not breastfeed while taking it.
• Tell your doctor if you have gout or high uric acid, or liver disease.
• Tell your doctor about other medicines you take, including paracetamol and diabetes medicines.

Frequently asked questions about Favipiravir

What is the price of Favipiravir in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Favipiravir products currently in stock range from Rs 1,152 to Rs 4,032 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Favipra 200 mg Tablets at Rs 1,152. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Favipiravir are available in Pakistan?

Favipiravir is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Piravir (Getz Pharma Ltd), Faprivir (Shaigan Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Favipra (CCL Pharmaceuticals Ltd) and Revipir (Genix Pharma Ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Favipiravir?

Yes. Favipiravir is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Favipiravir be used during pregnancy?

Favipiravir can harm an unborn baby, so it must not be taken during pregnancy; women who could become pregnant need a pregnancy test and effective contraception, and men should also use contraception during and after treatment.

Are all Favipiravir brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Favipiravir in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Favipiravir brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 4 products containing Favipiravir from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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