Antiviral agent
Great Britain approves first tablet for the treatment of Covid-19
The antiviral drug Lagevrio (also known as molnupiravir) is safe and effective, according to a statement from the British government
© Merck & Co./AP / DPA
The antiviral agent Legevrio is intended to reduce the health risk for corona patients – and can be taken orally. The UK Minister of Health speaks of an “historic day” in view of the approval.
The British Medicines Agency MHRA has approved a tablet for the treatment of Covid-19 for the first time. The antiviral drug Lagevrio (also known as molnupiravir) is safe and effective in reducing the risk of hospital admissions and deaths in Covid patients with mild and moderate courses, a statement from the British government said on Thursday. It is the world’s first approved antiviral for oral use against Covid-19.
Health Minister speaks of “historic day”
The preparation developed by the pharmaceutical companies Ridgeback Biotherapeutics and Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) interferes with the replication of the virus and thus reduces the severity of the disease. According to clinical studies, it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after a positive test and within five days of the onset of symptoms.
Health Minister Sajid Javid praised the approval as a “historic day for our country” and “decisive game” for risk groups such as people with suppressed immune systems.
The European Medicines Agency Ema announced at the end of October that it would examine the use of molnupiravir. The US FDA has also initiated an approval process for the product. Ema is also examining seven other possible corona funds.
Remdesivir (trade name Veklury) from the US company Gilead has been the only drug approved in the EU since July 2020 – but only for certain seriously ill corona patients. It is given as an infusion.