Molnupiravir
Molnupiravir is an oral antiviral medication designed to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults at high risk for progressing to severe disease. It works by introducing errors into the SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA during replication, preventing the virus from multiplying effectively.
An oral antiviral drug used to treat COVID-19 in high-risk patients by causing viral RNA errors during replication.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J05AB18
- RxNorm
- 2587901
- Generic
- Molnupiravir
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- Lagevrio
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults with positive SARS-CoV-2 test results who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.
Molnupiravir is a prodrug that is metabolized into NHC (cytidine nucleoside analogue), which enters cells and is phosphorylated to form the active triphosphate form (NHC-TP). This active metabolite incorporates into viral RNA during replication, causing lethal mutagenesis and preventing viral spread.
Typically initiated within 5 days of symptom onset. Not authorized for use in patients younger than 18 years, for prevention of COVID-19, or for severe/critical cases requiring hospitalization. Should not be used during pregnancy. Complete the full treatment course as prescribed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy