Remdesivir: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Remdesivir is an intravenous antiviral used for COVID-19 in hospital. It belongs to the COVID-19 antiviral group. These reduce the severity of COVID-19, working best when started early in high-risk people.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	COVID-19 antiviral
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

COVID-19 in hospitalised patients, especially those needing oxygen
Early COVID-19 in high-risk people as a short course of drips
Given only by intravenous drip in a hospital or clinic

Common brand names

India: Cipremi, Covifor, Remdac
Worldwide: Veklury

Common side effects

Nausea
Raised liver enzymes on blood tests
Infusion reactions such as chills, sweating or rash during the drip
Slow heartbeat

Before taking it — precautions

Liver blood tests are checked before and during treatment; tell your doctor about liver disease
Tell your doctor about kidney disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding
Not combined with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, which can reduce its effect

When to see a doctor urgently

Shivering, rash, wheeze, dizziness or breathlessness during the drip: tell the nurse at once (urgent)
Yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine
Very slow heartbeat, fainting or feeling faint

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of remdesivir depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is remdesivir available as a tablet?

No. It is only given as an intravenous drip under medical supervision.

Does remdesivir cure COVID-19?

It can shorten recovery and reduce the risk of getting worse in some patients, but it is one part of care, not a cure for severe disease.

Why are blood tests needed?

Remdesivir can raise liver enzymes, so doctors check liver and kidney tests to make sure it is safe to continue.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.