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Q: What are the effects and risks of the new drug Remdesivir?

There are two clinical trial reports on Remdesivir. The first report from China concluded that it was ineffective. Meanwhile, the American company Gilead Sciences, which developed and sells Remdesivir, reported that it was effective. I cannot determine which report is correct.

However, what can be said about Remdesivir is that 1 in 4 patients may experience kidney damage, so it is not a drug that should be used lightly. There is also discussion about the use of steroids and Avigan, but steroids are contraindicated after two weeks of illness due to the risk of severe complications. Additionally, the dose of Avigan used for COVID-19 is three times that of its use for influenza, which has led to many side effects.

Q: A vaccine is said to be available by September. Can we rely on this as a solution?

There are claims that a vaccine could be developed as early as September. However, ensuring its safety and producing it on a large scale will take approximately one to one and a half years.

Until then, the only option is to use existing preventive measures. This means washing hands thoroughly, gargling, wearing masks to prevent the spread of infection, and reducing oxidative stress to boost immunity, which are all essential practices.

Q: Which is more effective, antiviral drugs or vaccines?

Many people think of antiviral drugs as a cure-all, but Avigan, for example, was originally developed for influenza and only shortens symptoms by about one day. It is not a definitive cure for COVID-19. Moreover, since the dosage being used for COVID-19 is three times that for influenza, significant side effects have been observed.

Vaccines, on the other hand, are thoroughly tested for efficacy and safety before they are released to the public. Once an effective vaccine is available, it will be more affordable and safer compared to antiviral drugs.

Q: Are there any medications that should not be taken if infected with COVID-19?

There are lists of anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications that should not be taken when infected with COVID-19 circulating on the internet. Among the safer options, one recommended drug is Mefenamic Acid, commonly sold under the brand name Ponstel. It has been found to have no connection to severe COVID-19 complications. If purchasing an anti-inflammatory or pain reliever at a pharmacy, it is advisable to choose Mefenamic Acid.

※ The views expressed in this video and text reflect the personal opinions of Dr. Haruhiko Inubo, Special Appointment Professor at Gifu University’s Antioxidant Research Division, and do not represent the official stance of any affiliated institution.