About Veklury (remdesivir)
Veklury is considered an antiviral medication, which interrupts viral reproduction in the body. While Veklury was originally developed to treat Ebola, recent research has shown that Veklury is effective at treating SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).
Veklury is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including remdesivir.
Veklury is only administered through intravenous infusion by a healthcare provider.
Veklury uses
There is one FDA approved use for Veklury, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your doctor may prescribe Veklury for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
COVID-19
Veklury is FDA-approved to treat COVID-19. Clinical trials have shown that Veklury can effectively treat people 12 years and older who face an increased risk of severe disease.
In January 2022, the Food and Drug Administration approved Veklury for certain adult and pediatric patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19, including non-hospitalized patients, who face a high risk of progression into severe coronavirus disease. To date, it's the only COVID-19 treatment that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Veklury side effects
The side effects associated with taking Veklury are typically mild. Most Veklury side effects are associated with nausea.
Remdesivir treatment has some common side effects. They may include:Fever
Decreased levels of hemoglobin
Skin rash at the injection site
High blood sugar levels
Nausea
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Allergic reactions
Increased liver enzymes or impaired liver function
Severe hypersensitivity reactions
You should call your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.
How to take Veklury
Veklury only comes in the form of intravenous infusion, administered by a healthcare provider. It may be given through a vein by IV, one time each day for up to 10 days, or as determined by your healthcare provider.
What to avoid while taking Veklury
Veklury has 362 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.
Potential drug interactions with Veklury include:
Actonel (risedronate)
Aleve (naproxen)
Claritin (loratadine)
Prednisone
Aspirin
Avoid taking Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) or chloroquine while taking Veklury, as these drugs can block the effects of Veklury. In addition, avoid alcohol consumption. Because Veklury may impair liver function, alcohol can increase your risk of adverse reactions.
Medication alternatives to Veklury (remdesivir)
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other antiviral drugs or a COVID-19 treatment another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives that the FDA granted Emergency Use Authorization for the treatment of COVID-19.
COVID-19 medications
Molnupiravir
Paxlovid
Veklury prescription resources
Veklury Prescription FAQs
How much does Veklury cost?
The average price for Veklury is $520 per vial without insurance. Generic remdesivir may be more affordable. In addition, health insurance and government programs may be able to help cover the costs of remdesivir treatment.
What side effects can remdesivir cause?
Remdesivir treatment may cause several side effects, including:
Fever
Increased liver enzymes
Nausea
Severe hypersensitivity reactions
High blood sugar levels
Is Remdesivir for COVID-19 safe for the liver?
Clinical trials suggest that remdesivir formulations can put patients at an increased risk of acute liver disease, as remdesivir treatment can lead to elevated liver enzymes.
Who should not take Veklury?
Avoid taking Veklury if you have certain health conditions, such as:
Allergic reactions to Veklury and its ingredients
If you're planning to become pregnant or are currently breastfeeding
Liver conditions, such as liver inflammation or hepatitis
Chronic kidney disease
Severe renal impairment
What happens if I miss a dose of Veklury?
If you miss a dose of Veklury, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a new dosing schedule as soon as possible.
What happens if I take too much Veklury?
Veklury is given in a clinical setting. Your doctor will monitor your intravenous infusion to make sure you receive the correct dose.
3 simple steps to discuss a Veklury prescription today
Step 1
Book a Veklury prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Veklury prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
See a healthcare provider to administer Veklury.
Our doctors can refer you to a local specialist for administration.
Veklury prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To speak to a board-certified doctor about a Veklury prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
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$16.99/month
First month free
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30 days of free membership
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Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
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Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
California Department of Health. Remdesivir (Veklury) Distribution Fact Sheet. Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Remdesivir-(Veklury).aspx
Department of Health and Human Services. Veklury (remdesivir). Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://aspr.hhs.gov/COVID-19/Therapeutics/Products/Veklury/Pages/default.aspx
Food and Drug Administration. FDA Takes Actions to Expand Use of Treatment for Outpatients with Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19. Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-actions-expand-use-treatment-outpatients-mild-moderate-covid-19
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.