|
 
Last update: |
 |
|
|
19-Nov-2025
|
 |
|
|
Arch Hellen Med, 43(1), January-February 2026, 26-33 REVIEW Cardiovascular implications of remdesivir and favipiravir in COVID-19 therapy N.D. Rahmianti,1 V.R.C. Rampengan,2 N. Maulidiyah3 |
Remdesivir and favipiravir are treatment alternatives for COVID-19; however, the potential side effects on the cardiovascular system are often overlooked. The purpose of this article concerns a discussion for the cardiovascular side effects that may arise from the application of favipiravir and remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. Remdesivir and favipiravir have a strong inhibitory potential against SARS-CoV-2 infection by inhibiting the virus's RdRp activity. Preliminary reports from limited clinical studies indicate the success of both drugs in combating COVID-19. Currently, the safety profiles of these two drugs are primarily based on previous clinical trials for anti-influenza and Ebola therapies, which generally show mild side effects such as gastrointestinal disturbances. However, the impact of remdesivir and favipiravir on the cardiovascular system remains unclear. Nevertheless, studies have reported that both drugs can cause cardiac conduction disturbances that overlap with the hyperinflammatory conditions of COVID-19 patients. Additionally, both drugs are known to have vasodilatory effects and can inhibit the hERG potassium channel, potentially triggering cardiac arrhythmias. In conclusion, remdesivir and favipiravir demonstrate inhibitory potential against SARS-CoV-2 infection, with generally mild safety profiles, but their effects on the cardiovascular system, including the possibility of cardiac conduction disturbances, require further investigation.
Key words: Cardiovascular system, COVID-19, Favipiravir, Remdesivir, Side effect.
