Molnupiravir linked to COVID mutations Researchers found the widely used antiviral could be driving new SARS-CoV-2 variants, but there is no evidence these pose any additional threat.
New antiviral may offer ‘less cumbersome’ COVID treatment option The Chinese-developed oral antiviral reportedly achieves similar outcomes to Paxlovid, but with fewer side effects and drug–drug interactions.
GPs urged to not dismiss molnupiravir entirely While guidelines say the drug should be only prescribed as a ‘last resort’, there are concerns this could deter GPs from prescribing the treatment altogether.
Molnupiravir to be used only as a last resort: Taskforce Advice has changed for the country’s most prescribed COVID-19 oral antiviral, although access via the PBS will remain in place.
Doubts over impact of key antiviral treatment A large UK study suggests molnupiravir has no effect on hospitalisations and deaths but reduces the overall recovery time from COVID-19.
Push to allow pharmacist prescribing of antivirals flipped on its head A ‘more sensible approach’ would see the lifesaving medications added to the Doctor’s Bag, a prominent GP has said.
Could anticipatory deprescribing allow better COVID treatment? Despite being more effective according to some studies, Paxlovid prescriptions lag Lagevrio, with drug–drug interactions likely to play a part.
Push to assess COVID-19 treatment eligibility prior to infection College launches new guidelines to support GPs assessing the best approach for vulnerable patients before they test positive.
Clarity over longer telehealth phone consultations The new item numbers will be available from Tuesday 19 July, but GPs will not be able to claim for services already delivered.
Big fluctuations in PBS antiviral use by state The ability to issue life-saving COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments via the PBS may have so far largely depended on where prescribers work.