As COVID-19 cases continue to emerge in Pune and across India, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued comprehensive guidelines for the use of Remdesivir, an antiviral drug widely used in the treatment of moderate to severe coronavirus infections. The move comes in response to growing concerns about the misuse and over-prescription of Remdesivir, as well as the need to ensure its availability for patients who need it most.
Remdesivir is an antiviral medication that has been authorized for emergency use in treating COVID-19 patients who require supplemental oxygen but are not yet on invasive ventilation. While studies have shown that Remdesivir can reduce recovery time in certain cases, it is not a cure for COVID-19 and must be used judiciously under medical supervision.
The guidelines also highlight the importance of monitoring patients for possible side effects, such as liver or kidney dysfunction, allergic reactions, and infusion-related complications. Doctors are advised to conduct baseline liver and kidney function tests before starting treatment and to discontinue the drug if severe side effects are observed.
With the memory of previous waves of the pandemic still fresh, the PMC has urged citizens not to panic or seek Remdesivir without medical advice. The corporation has assured that adequate stocks are being maintained and that the drug will be made available to all eligible patients through authorized channels.
As Pune continues to manage the challenges of COVID-19, the PMC’s proactive approach in issuing clear guidelines for Remdesivir use is expected to promote rational drug use, prevent shortages, and protect patient safety. Hospitals and healthcare workers have been instructed to comply strictly with the new protocols.
