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Dictionary · Drug

remdesivir

An IV antiviral drug that stops the COVID-19 virus from copying itself.

rem-DES-ih-veer noun

What it means

An antiviral given by IV infusion for COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, in hospitalized clients and in some outpatients at high risk of severe illness. It works best early in the illness. Side effects include nausea, raised liver enzymes and infusion reactions.

For the nurse

Check liver tests and kidney function as ordered. Watch for infusion reactions such as low blood pressure, chills or shortness of breath during the infusion and for an hour after.

At a glance

Drug classantiviral (RNA polymerase inhibitor)
Brand namesVeklury
Also writtenVeklury

Related terms

SARS

Severe acute respiratory syndrome: a lung infection caused by a coronavirus, first seen in 2002–2003.

RT-PCR

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction: a lab test that finds the genetic material of a virus or other germ in a sample.

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