Update: GS-441524 & Remdesivir for Cats With FIP

Jim Budde, PharmD, RPh, DICVP, Chief Pharmacy Officer, Instinct Science

ArticleLast Updated August 20241 min read
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A comprehensive look at how to manage FIP using GS-441524 and remdesivir, including pet owner handouts, are available from Plumb's Veterinary Drugs.

Pharmacology of GS-441524 & Remdesivir 

Remdesivir is a prodrug that is rapidly converted into GS-441524 in cats.1 GS-441524 is an adenine C-nucleoside ribose analogue with activity against RNA viruses.2 Cellular kinases phosphorylate GS-441524 into an active triphosphate metabolite that competes with endogenous nucleosides, inhibiting viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and terminating coronavirus RNA transcription.2,3 These drugs have potent antiviral activity against the FIP coronavirus.3-5

Contraindications of GS-441524 & Remdesivir 

GS-441524 and remdesivir are contraindicated in cats hypersensitive to them.

Adverse Effects of GS-441524 & Remdesivir 

Pain on injection and injection site reactions are common.6-11 GS-441524 uroliths were recorded in 2 cats given GS-441524 for treatment of FIP.12,13

Additional Information & Administration Instructions 

GS-441524 and remdesivir have not been approved for use in cats in any jurisdiction. Many cat owners have acquired GS-441524 through unlicensed and unregulated sources, and there is significant concern about the quality of these unregulated products.14,15 Some countries have allowed use of GS-441524 and remdesivir compounded by pharmacies under Good Manufacturing Practice conditions in cats.16