Molnupiravir (MK-4482/EIDD-2801) inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication in Syrian Hamster Model
An effective antiviral against SARS-CoV-2 that could be administered orally for use following high-risk exposure would be of substantial benefit in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study showed that MK-4482 (Molnupiravir) an orally administered nucleoside analog, inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication in the Syrian hamster model and when administered either starting at 12 h prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection,or even 12 h post-infection, significantly decreases viral lung loads and pathology, but does not affect shedding from the upper respiratory tract. The study also determined a half-maximal inhibitory concentration(IC50) value for EIDD-1931. MK-4482 (known previously as EIDD-2801) is an orally administered bioavailable prodrug (5′-isobutyric ester form) of the cytidine nucleoside analog EIDD-1931 (β-D-N4-hydroxycytidine; NHC).
Study design:
- Hamsters were divided into groups for either pre-infection or post-infection MK-4482 treatment (n = 6 per group). A third group consisted of vehicle control animals that received the same dosing schedule and volume as the pre-infection group.
- Groups were then treated with MK-4482 (250 mg/kg) at 12 h and 2 h prior to infection (pre-infection group) or 12 h following infection (post-infection group).
- Treatment was then maintained with 12 h dosing until the completion of the study 84 h post-infection (day 4).
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.