HCMC – An advisory council under Vietnam’s Ministry of Health announced in its latest working session that Molnupiravir antiviral drug is not recommended for pregnant women and children under 18 as it could affect fetus, sperm and bone growth.
Molnupiravir is now used to treat Covid-19 patients with mild to moderate symptoms, according to the ministry’s Advisory Council for the Registration of Circulation of Drugs and Medicinal Ingredients.
The council advises people to take Molnupiravir within five days of developing symptoms. The medication should not be taken for more than five consecutive days.
As for men, the council said Molnupiravir could affect sperm, although the risk is reportedly low. Accordingly, male Covid patients should use reliable contraception while taking Molnupiravir and at least three months after the last dose.
For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, Molnupiravir is not recommended during pregnancy. Women should use reliable contraception while taking Molnupiravir and for four days after the last dose.
Based on the possible harmful effects caused by Molnupiravir in infants, the council also said breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Molnupiravir and four days after the last dose.
For children and teenagers, Molnupiravir must not be used for those under 18 as the drug could affect bone growth.
Further, people should only take Molnupiravir as prescribed by doctors. They should not buy or use Molnupiravir without clear origin, the council added.
