From Development Code to Brand Name: The Naming of Veklury
Before being known as remdesivir and later Veklury, the drug was identified by its developmental code, GS-5734. The generic, or nonproprietary, name, remdesivir, is used universally by scientists and medical professionals. Gilead Sciences, the developer, chose the brand name Veklury for commercial use after regulatory approval, allowing them to market and differentiate the drug. Remdesivir is a powdery, white solid that was developed in collaboration with various institutions, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Science Behind Veklury (Remdesivir)
Veklury is a nucleotide analog RNA polymerase inhibitor that targets the SARS-CoV-2 virus's ability to replicate. It acts as a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active form, GS-441524 triphosphate. This active metabolite is incorporated into new viral RNA strands, terminating the replication process prematurely and stopping the virus from multiplying. Remdesivir has shown broad antiviral activity against various RNA viruses, including coronaviruses.
FDA Approval and Evolving Therapeutic Use
Remdesivir was initially investigated for other viruses, such as Ebola, before being repurposed for COVID-19. It received an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA in May 2020 for hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Full FDA approval for Veklury followed in October 2020 for hospitalized patients. In January 2022, approval was expanded to include non-hospitalized patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 who are at high risk for progression.
Comparison of Common COVID-19 Antivirals
Veklury is one of several antiviral treatments for COVID-19. The table below compares key features of Veklury with Paxlovid and Molnupiravir.
| Feature | Veklury (remdesivir) | Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) | Molnupiravir (Lagevrio) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administration Route | Intravenous (IV) infusion | Oral (pills) | Oral (capsules) |
| Treatment Setting | Hospital or qualified outpatient facility | Home | Home |
| Typical Patient Profile | Hospitalized patients, and high-risk non-hospitalized patients (pediatric and adult) | High-risk adults and pediatric patients (12 years and older) | High-risk adults (18 and older) when other options are unavailable |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits viral RNA polymerase | Inhibits viral protease | Introduces viral mutations |
| Most Common Side Effects | Nausea, increased liver enzymes | Altered sense of taste, diarrhea | Diarrhea, nausea, dizziness |
| Drug Interactions | Potential antagonism with chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine | Significant potential for numerous drug-drug interactions | Limited information; not recommended during pregnancy |
Practical Considerations for Veklury
The primary challenge for Veklury, particularly for outpatient use, is its administration method. The requirement for a multi-day intravenous infusion is time-consuming and resource-intensive, making it often a secondary option after oral antivirals like Paxlovid. However, Veklury's efficacy against variants can make it a preferred alternative when other options are limited.
Safety Profile and Ongoing Research
Studies show common side effects of Veklury include nausea and increased liver enzymes. Patients are monitored for these and other potential adverse reactions, including allergic reactions, during and after treatment. Liver function is checked with blood tests before and during treatment. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis found remdesivir provided a significant survival benefit for hospitalized patients. Research continues to evaluate its effectiveness against new variants.
Conclusion
Veklury is the brand name for the antiviral drug remdesivir, which was previously known as GS-5734. It was the first FDA-approved treatment for COVID-19. Veklury works by interfering with viral replication and is administered intravenously. Despite the logistical challenges of IV administration, Veklury remains a valuable treatment option, especially for hospitalized and high-risk non-hospitalized individuals. Understanding the different names for this medication is important in treatment discussions.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Remdesivir for COVID-19
