What does it do?
Remdesivir is used to treat COVID-19.
Before you start
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- You may need a blood test to check how well your liver is working.
How is it given?
Remdesivir is given as an infusion into a vein by a health professional.
You will need to stay for 30 minutes once the infusion is completed, to check you do not have any side effects.
Can you take other medicines?
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.
What side effects might you notice?
Remdesivir is a new medicine. All the possible side effects are not known at this time.
| Side Effects | Recommended action |
|---|---|
|
Reaction during the infusion including: trouble breathing, swelling, rash, dizziness, fast heartbeat, fever, sweating |
Tell your health professional immediately |
|
Nausea |
Tell your health professional if troublesome |
If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
Other information:
- Remdesivir is not registered for use in New Zealand. Discuss with your doctor.
This leaflet contains important, but not all, information about this medicine.
Prepared by the MyMedicines Committee at Christchurch Hospital, Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha, New Zealand. March 2023
For more general information about this sheet and its contents, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
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About My Medicines
My Medicines Patient Information Leaflets (PILs) contain important, but not all, information about the medicines they describe.
For more information about the sheets, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
My Medicines is developed by a team at Te Whatu Ora – Waitaha. Our team is made up of doctors, pharmacists, and a non-medical person to help us keep to plain language. We also discuss our information with specialist health professionals or groups when needed