Molnuvid 200 mg is an oral antiviral capsule that contains molnupiravir. It is intended for adults who have mild to moderate Covid‑19 and who also have risk factors—such as older age, obesity, diabetes, heart or lung disease, or a weakened immune system—that make severe illness more likely. When started within five days of symptom onset, Molnuvid can lower the chances of hospitalisation or death and may shorten the course of the infection.

Mechanism of Action
Molnupiravir is a pro‑drug. After swallowing the capsule, the body converts the medicine into an active form that resembles natural building blocks of the virus’s genetic material. The SARS‑CoV‑2 polymerase mistakenly uses these mimic molecules while copying its RNA. Each time that happens, small errors accumulate in the viral genome. The flood of errors—often called error catastrophe—creates non‑functional viruses and halts the infection before it can gain momentum.

Uses
Molnuvid is prescribed for the short‑term treatment of confirmed Covid‑19 in adults who have at least one condition that raises the risk of severe disease. Treatment is most effective when the full five‑day course is started as early as possible, ideally within the first five days after symptoms appear or a positive test is obtained. Molnuvid is not authorised for preventing Covid‑19, treating people who already need oxygen or hospital care, or for use in children.

Adverse Effects
Most people tolerate Molnuvid well. The side‑effects that do appear are usually mild and short‑lived.

Common reactions include headache, a feeling of dizziness, mild nausea, loose stools, or slight tiredness.
Less common effects under observation include mild, transient rises in liver enzymes and skin rash.