Impact of a remdesivir formulary restriction by antimicrobial stewardship on drug utilization and cost at a safety-net community hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic

Deploying novel COVID-19 therapies proved challenging amid rapidly evolving data, drug shortages, and conflicting guidelines. We established a remdesivir formulary restriction remdesivir to promote its evidence-based use. This intervention led to changes in remdesivir utilization patterns and cost savings. Formulary restrictions can play an important role in pandemic preparedness and response.