Behind the potential of molnupiravir which is considered quite effective in treating COVID-19, this drug is known to be harmful to pregnancy. This is the reason why the use of molnupiravir is not recommended for pregnant women.
Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that was developed specifically to treat COVID-19. Based on the results of gradual clinical trials, molnupiravir is considered quite effective for patients with COVID-19 who are at risk of worsening to a severe degree.
In addition, the results of these clinical trials also show that molnupiravir is able to control the amount of virus, reduce the risk of needing to be hospitalized, and even reduce the risk of death from COVID-19.
This drug is already available in Indonesia after obtaining an emergency use permit (emergency use authorization), both from the FDA and BPOM. Even so, the FDA and BPOM both confirmed that this drug has a risk of dangerous side effects in pregnant women.
The Facts Behind the Dangers of Molnupiravir in Pregnant Women
Several studies in laboratory animals have shown that molnupiravir is at risk of causing genetic abnormalities or birth defects in the fetus. Not only that, molnupiravir also has the potential to reduce the quality of sperm cells.
Data so far indicate that the use of molnupiravir in men or women of childbearing age who are undergoing a program of pregnancy or actively having sex can increase the risk of developing defects in the fetus later.
On the basis of these two things, the use of molnupiravir is also not recommended for pregnant women and men and women who are undergoing a pregnancy program. To be safer, the use of molnupiravir for men and women of childbearing age needs to be accompanied by the use of contraception to prevent pregnancy.
In men, consistent use of condoms during intercourse is recommended throughout the course of molnupiravir treatment for at least 3 months after completion of therapy. In women, contraceptive use is recommended during molnupiravir treatment for up to 4 days after completion of therapy.
Side Effects of Using Molnupiravir
As with drugs in general, molnupiravir also has the potential to cause side effects. However, the side effects of molnupiravir are usually mild, including:
Although considered useful in treating COVID-19 disease, molnupiravir is still being studied to ensure its safety and effectiveness, especially in certain groups, such as pregnant women, children, and infants.
It is also important to always remember that prevention is better than cure. So, always carry out health protocols to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, starting from washing hands with soap and running water, wearing masks properly when doing activities outside the home, maintaining a minimum distance of 1 meter from other people, avoiding crowds, and of course getting the vaccine. COVID-19.
If you still have questions about the treatment of COVID-19, including regarding the use of molnupiravir, you can chat directly with the doctor in the ALODOKTER application. In this application, you can also make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital.
