Acute Liver Failure Secondary to Remdesivir in the Treatment of COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Hepatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Remdesivir (RDV) is a primary antiviral medication used for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
• The widespread application of RDV necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its safety profile.
• Limited safety data exists regarding the potential adverse effects of RDV, particularly in vulnerable patient populations.

Observation:

• An elderly male patient with obesity and COVID-19 was treated with RDV.
• The patient subsequently developed acute liver failure (ALF) following the initiation of RDV therapy.
• This case highlights a potential severe adverse drug reaction associated with RDV.

Findings:

• The case report documents a severe instance of liver injury potentially induced by RDV.
• Risk factors such as advanced age and obesity may predispose individuals to RDV-associated hepatotoxicity.
• The clinical presentation and management of RDV-induced liver failure are discussed.

Implications:

• This case expands the known side effect profile of remdesivir.
• It underscores the critical importance of vigilant hepatic function monitoring in patients receiving RDV.
• Developing clear guidelines for managing RDV-induced liver injury is crucial for patient safety.