The current wave of COVID-19 has seen a significant outbreak within families, including children and the elderly who have difficulty swallowing favipiravir tablets, an antiviral medication. Chulabhorn Hospital, in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University and the private sector, has developed a liquid favipiravir syrup to facilitate quicker access to antiviral treatment for children and the elderly. 

Professor Dr. Nithi Mahanonth, Secretary of the Chulabhorn Royal Academy, announced the launch of the favipiravir syrup formulation for treating infections in children, the elderly, and those who have difficulty swallowing pills. With the current outbreak, the number of infections has risen sharply, particularly among children, who account for about 10% of all cases. To prevent severe symptoms, it is crucial to administer favipiravir antiviral medication within four days of symptom onset, which can help reduce severity and mortality rates.

             Among all pediatric patients, one in three requires favipiravir. Currently, administering favipiravir to children involves crushing the tablets and dissolving them in water, which has limitations such as sedimentation, uncertain dosage, and a bitter taste that makes it difficult for children to swallow. However, the newly produced syrup can be taken directly, ensuring a consistent dosage and easier consumption.

"Currently, there are only a few medications available worldwide, one of which is the antiviral drug favipiravir that helps reduce the severity of the disease.

This medication has been in use since 2014 in Japan for treating influenza and has been recognized by the World Health Organization for treating Ebola."

The favipiravir syrup can be used for children aged 5-7 years or elderly patients who cannot swallow pills. Each bottle of favipiravir syrup contains 60 cc and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor, on an empty stomach, twice a day, 12 hours apart. The syrup should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Once dispensed, the medication is only effective for 30 days and should not be stored for long periods due to loss of potency.

 

Doctors warn that "favipiravir" must only be prescribed by a physician, as monitoring of symptoms is necessary. According to data from the pediatric team at Chulabhorn Hospital, the dosage of the syrup for children will depend on their weight. Typically, a larger dose is given on the first day, which is gradually reduced over a period of 5-10 days.

Previously, the favipiravir syrup was tested on 12 pediatric patients aged 8 months to 5 years at Chulabhorn Hospital over the past week. Follow-up on their treatment showed good responses with no severe side effects.

Currently, Chulabhorn Hospital can produce and distribute the favipiravir syrup to approximately 300 patients per week. In the future, if other hospitals are ready to produce it, they can request the formulation to manufacture it, but it must be under quality control. Physicians or healthcare facilities can request the medication through www.favipiravir.cra.ac.th.

Data from the care of children infected with COVID-19 at Chulabhorn Hospital shows that the number of infected children has increased by 2 to 3 times. Currently, about 80 children aged 3 months to 15 years are being cared for. Most children experience mild symptoms and less severity compared to adults. Parents are advised that while waiting for their children to enter the treatment system, they should manage initial symptoms as they would for a common cold. However, once children recover from COVID-19, they should be monitored for complications for another month.