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xocova

Pharmaranks rates Xocova 3.5/5 for recall safety — an independent score from its FDA recall history and its manufacturer's record. Xocova (Ensitrelvir) is a medication supplied as a tablet.

Ensitrelvir · by Shionogi

70/100Limited · 1 source

Based on 1 source · Recall-safety score from FDA recall history — this product's own recalls and its manufacturer's record. Not an efficacy or quality rating. methodology →

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 22, 2026·How we rate
Verified againstopenFDANIH DailyMedRxClass

Key facts

Active ingredient
Ensitrelvir
Form
Tablet
Strength
Ensitrelvir 125MG
Type
Prescription (Rx)
Brand or generic
Brand-name
Manufacturer
Shionogi
FDA application
NDA220442

What is Xocova?

From the FDA label:XOCOVA tablets contain ensitrelvir, a SARS-CoV-2 main protease (M pro ) inhibitor. Ensitrelvir is present as a 1:1 co-crystal with fumaric acid and has the following chemical name: (6 E )-6-[(6-Chloro-2-methyl-2 H -indazol-5-yl)imino]-3-[(1-methyl-1 H -1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)methyl]-1-[(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl)methyl]-1,3,5-triazinane-2,4-dione monofumaric acid The molecular formula is C 22 H 17 ClF 3 N 9 O 2 ∙C 4 H 4 O 4 and the molecular weight is 647.96. The structural formula is: Ensitrelvir fumaric acid is a white powder that is freely soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide; slightly soluble in acetone, ethanol, and methanol; and practically insoluble in water. XOCOVA is provided as tablets for oral use containing 125 mg of ensitrelvir. Inactive ingredients are colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. Chemical Structure

How to use

Verify pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating XOCOVA. ( 2.1 ) Begin XOCOVA as soon as possible and within 72 hours following contact with an individual who has COVID-19. ( 2.2 ) Dosage: 375 mg (three 125-mg tablets taken at the same time) orally on Day 1 and 125 mg (one 125-mg tablet) orally on Days 2 to 5 taken with or without food. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Pregnancy Evaluation Prior to Initiating XOCOVA Verify pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating XOCOVA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ] . 2.2 Recommended Dosage The recommended dosage of XOCOVA in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older is 375 mg (three 125-mg tablets taken together) orally on Day 1 and 125 mg (one 125-mg tablet) orally on Days 2 to 5 with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Begin XOCOVA as soon as possible and within 72 hours following contact with an individual who has COVID-19. The tablets should be taken at approximately the same time each day. If a dose of XOCOVA is missed, take the missed dose as soon as possible on the same day, and then take the next dose as scheduled the following day.

Side effects

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] The most common adverse events (regardless of causality) occurring in ≥1% of the XOCOVA group and at a greater frequency compared to placebo were headache, diarrhea, and cough. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Shionogi Inc. at 1-800-849-9707 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The overall safety profile of XOCOVA is based on data from 2,831 adults and adolescents exposed to the recommended dosage and duration of XOCOVA in controlled clinical trials. Trial SCORPIO-PEP was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 1,190 subjects received oral XOCOVA (375 mg [Day 1]/125 mg [Days 2-5]) and 1,187 subjects received oral placebo (Days 1-5). The most common adverse events (regardless of causality) occurring in ≥1% of the XOCOVA group and at a greater frequency compared to placebo were headache (2.9% and 2.6%, respectively), diarrhea (1.7% and 1.3%,…

Warnings

Important safety information

Embryofetal toxicity: Based on animal data, XOCOVA may cause fetal harm. Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential that XOCOVA may cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during XOCOVA use and for 2 weeks after the final dose. ( 5.1 , 8.1 , 8.3 ) The concomitant use of XOCOVA and certain other drugs may result in potentially significant drug interactions. Consult the Full Prescribing Information prior to and during treatment for potential drug interactions. ( 5.2 , 7 ) Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, and angioedema, have been reported with XOCOVA. If signs and symptoms of a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction occur, immediately discontinue XOCOVA and initiate appropriate treatment. ( 5.3 ) 5.1 Embryofetal Toxicity Based on animal reproduction studies, XOCOVA may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. In rabbits, embryofetal toxicity (including skeletal malformations and embryofetal lethality) was observed in rabbit offspring following exposure of pregnant rabbits to ensitrelvir at 7 times the human exposures at the recommended human dose (RHD). Likewise in rats, fetal growth retardation, low fetal body weight, skeletal variations, offspring lethality, low body weight in offspring, and retardation of morphological development were observed following exposure during gestation and lactation at exposures 9 times the human exposures at the RHD [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential that XOCOVA may cause fetal harm. Verify pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating XOCOVA. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during XOCOVA use and for 2 weeks after the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ] . 5.2 Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions Due to Drug Interactions XOCOVA is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and an inhibitor of P-gp and BCRP. In patients receiving or initiating medications metabolized by CYP3A or transported by P-gp or BCRP, XOCOVA may increase plasma concentrations of those medications and may potentially lead to severe, life-threatening, or fatal events from increased exposure of concomitant medications. In addition, medications that induce CYP3A may decrease concentrations of ensitrelvir, leading to loss of therapeutic effect of XOCOVA. Prior to prescribing XOCOVA, review all medications taken by the patient to assess potential drug-drug interactions and determine if concomitant medications require a dose adjustment, interruption, and/or additional monitoring (e.g., calcineurin inhibitors) [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7) ] . Consider the benefit of XOCOVA and whether the risk of potential drug-drug interactions can be appropriately managed [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . 5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions Including Anaphylaxis Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, and angioedema, have been reported with XOCOVA [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . If signs and symptoms of a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction occur, immediately discontinue XOCOVA and initiate appropriate treatment.

Who should not take Xocova

XOCOVA is contraindicated in patients with a history of clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions to ensitrelvir or any other components of the product. XOCOVA is contraindicated in patients taking drugs that are: Primarily metabolized by CYP3A for which elevated concentrations may be associated with serious and/or life-threatening reactions [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] and Strong CYP3A inducers because they may significantly reduce ensitrelvir plasma concentrations, leading to the potential loss of virologic response [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . History of clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions to ensitrelvir or any other components of the product. ( 4 ) Co-administration with drugs primarily metabolized by CYP3A for which elevated concentrations may be associated with serious and/or life-threatening reactions. ( 4 , 7.3 ) Co-administration with strong CYP3A inducers considered to significantly reduce ensitrelvir plasma concentrations and may be associated with the potential for loss of virologic response. ( 4 , 7.3 )

Overdose — what happens if you take too much

Treatment of overdose with XOCOVA should consist of general supportive measures, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the clinical status of the patient. There is no specific antidote for overdose with XOCOVA.

U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.

Interactions

Co-administration of XOCOVA can alter the plasma concentrations of other drugs, and other drugs may alter the plasma concentrations of XOCOVA. Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during XOCOVA use and review concomitant medications during XOCOVA use. ( 4 , 5.2 , 7 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Potential for XOCOVA to Affect Other Drugs Ensitrelvir is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A and an inhibitor of P-gp and BCRP. Co-administration of XOCOVA with drugs that are primarily metabolized by CYP3A or are transported by P-gp or BCRP may result in increased plasma concentrations of such drugs and increase the risk of adverse events [see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Drug Interactions (7.3) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . For drugs that are CYP3A substrates and contraindicated with XOCOVA, initiation of XOCOVA should be considered only after careful evaluation of relevant clinical and pharmacokinetic factors related to the concomitant medication. In addition, re-initiation of contraindicated CYP3A substrates should be considered based on an assessment of the duration of CYP3A inhibition and patient‑specific considerations. Refer to individual drug prescribing information for additional information. 7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect XOCOVA Ensitrelvir is a CYP3A substrate; therefore, drugs that induce CYP3A may decrease ensitrelvir plasma concentrations and reduce XOCOVA therapeutic effect [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Therefore, use of XOCOVA with strong CYP3A4 inducers is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4) ] . No dose adjustment is recommended when XOCOVA is used concomitantly with moderate or weak CYP3A inducers [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Refer to individual drug prescribing information for additional information. 7.3 Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Table 1 provides examples of drugs that are contraindicated with XOCOVA [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Table 1 is provided as a guide and is not a comprehensive list of all possible drugs that may interact with XOCOVA. The healthcare provider should consult other appropriate resources, such as the prescribing information for the interacting drug, for comprehensive information on dosing and monitoring with concomitant use of a strong CYP3A inhibitor, like XOCOVA [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ]. Table 1 Drugs Contraindicated with XOCOVA due to Risk of Potentially Serious or Fatal Interaction [see Contraindications (4) ] Drug Class Drug(s) within Class Effect on Drug Concentration Clinical Comment Antiarrhythmics quinidine ↑ antiarrhythmic Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for cardiac arrhythmias. Anticancer drugs apalutamide, enzalutamide ↓ ensitrelvir Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential loss of virologic response. Anticonvulsants carbamazepine See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , phenytoin ↓ ensitrelvir Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential loss of virologic response. Antigout agents colchicine ↑ colchicine Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for serious and/or life-threatening reactions in patients with renal and/or hepatic impairment. Antimycobacterials rifampin ↓ ensitrelvir Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential loss of virologic response. Antipsychotics lurasidone, pimozide ↑ lurasidone, pimozide Co-administration is contraindicated due to serious and/or life-threatening reactions, such as cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiovascular drugs eplerenone, ivabradine ↑ eplerenone, ivabradine Co-administration is contraindicated. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator potentiators lumacaftor/ivacaftor ↓ ensitrelvir Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential loss of virologic response. Ergot derivatives dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine ↑ dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for acute ergot toxicity characterized by vasospasm and ischemia of the extremities and other tissues, including the central nervous system. Herbal products (for depression) St. John's wort ↓ ensitrelvir Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential loss of virologic response. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) simvastatin ↑ simvastatin Co-administration is contraindicated. Discontinue use of simvastatin at least 12 hours prior to initiation of XOCOVA. Immunosuppressants voclosporin ↑ voclosporin Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) inhibitors lomitapide ↑ lomitapide Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists finerenone ↑ finerenone Co-administration is contraindicated due to potential for serious adverse reactions, including hyperkalemia, hypotension, and hyponatremia. Sedatives triazolam ↑ triazolam Co-administration is contraindicated.

Dosage forms

Tablet

The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.

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Frequently asked questions

How is Xocova rated?
pharmaranks gives Xocova a composite score of 3.5 out of 5, currently based on 1 weighted source (FDA regulatory recall-safety data weighted highest). See our methodology at /how-we-rate.
Is there a coupon or discount for Xocova?
pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Xocova. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
Who makes Xocova?
Xocova is marketed by Shionogi. You can see Shionogi's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
Is Xocova a brand-name or generic drug?
Xocova is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Ensitrelvir.
Is Xocova available over the counter?
No. Xocova is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
What forms does Xocova come in?
Xocova is currently marketed as tablet, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
Is Xocova FDA-registered?
Xocova is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA220442. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
Has Xocova been recalled by the FDA?
Xocova has no FDA recalls recorded under its own application in the openFDA enforcement database. Its recall-safety score reflects its manufacturer's overall recall record. This is general reference, not medical advice — check the FDA recall database for the latest alerts.
Is Xocova safe?
There's no single safe-or-not verdict. pharmaranks gives Xocova a recall-safety score of 70/100, based on its FDA recall history (no recalls under its own FDA application) — not an efficacy or side-effect rating. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings before use, and always consult a licensed professional.
What are the side effects of Xocova?
Xocova's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] The most common adverse events (regardless of causality) occurring in ≥1% of the XOCOVA group and at a greater freque… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.

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