Exploring Adverse Events of Remdesivir in Covid-19 Patients: A Comprehensive Global Analysis

Abstract

Background: The emergence of COVID-19, stemming from SARS-CoV-2, has triggered a global pandemic, urging rapid therapeutic interventions. Remdesivir, a nucleotide analog prodrug, garnered attention for its potential against COVID-19 due to in vitro efficacy against coronaviruses. This study reviews Remdesivir’s adverse effects in COVID-19 patients. Methodology: While Remdesivir shows promise, recent studies raise efficacy concerns. Adverse drug event (ADE) documentation is vital due to limited pre-pandemic ADE data. WHO VigiBase® analysis (2015-2020) and COVID-19 ADE studies were undertaken, focusing on age, severity, region, and organ impact. 1086 ADEs emerged from 439 case reports by July 19, 2020, in VigiBase®, reducing to 1004 after duplicates were removed. ADEs primarily related to COVID-19 patients (92.5%), notably from the Americas (67.7%). Mainly in males above 45, ADEs were serious (82.5%). Key ADEs encompassed elevated hepatic enzymes (32.1%), renal damage (14.4%), increased creatinine levels (11.2%), and respiratory failure (6.4%). Conclusion: Liver and kidney function deterioration emerged as frequent ADEs, underscoring the need for vigilance during Remdesivir treatment. These findings align with regulatory documents. In sum, COVID-19 has prompted swift therapeutic responses, with Remdesivir being explored as a potential treatment. This study sheds light on associated ADEs, highlighting the importance of monitoring and informed decision-making