Molnupiravir, oral anti-COVID drug, ready for launch in India; Rs 649 per strip
The world’s first and only oral antiviral approved by the US FDA, UK MHRA and Indian CDSCO for the treatment of COVID-19 (emergency restricted use), Molnupiravir is ready for launch. The drug will be launched by ENTOD Pharmaceuticals. The company also confirmed the launch of the generic version of Molnupiravir under the brand name Molentod in India. This drug can be used to treat adult patients of COVID-19.
Last week, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), based on a review of clinical data for Molnupiravir, approved Molnupiravir for the treatment of adult patients with COVID-19 with SPO2 > 93% and who have a risk of disease progression. high risk. including hospitalization or death.
Nikhil K Masurkar, Executive Director, Antode Pharmaceuticals, said, “The emergency approval of Molnupiravir by DCGI is a very important decision taken by the government and will help save India from the omicron wave.”
ENTOD Pharmaceuticals said it aims to make the product available as quickly as possible and that its first batch is already in production.
MOLENTOD™ will be available at retail chemists, pharmacy chains, hospitals and online stores across India. Each strip will contain 10 capsules and will cost Rs 649. The recommended dosage of the drug is four capsules (800 mg) twice a day for five days. The duration of treatment with molnupiravir is much shorter than with other treatments, which is a significant advantage as it reduces pill burden and increases compliance.
Molnupiravir improves patient compliance for non-hospitalized patients and reduces the likelihood of hospitalization or death for high-risk populations.
“In the backdrop of the ever-increasing Omicron cases now in India, the launch of this oral anti-viral drug is another powerful addition to India’s arsenal in its fight against the ongoing pandemic. Top global regulatory bodies including our own DCGI have put forward this molecule which demonstrates the potential efficacy rate of this drug. Moreover, the short duration nature of this treatment will ensure better compliance to help the country avoid unnecessary hospitalizations or even deaths in the coming months,” said Anjula Masurkar, Clinical Director, Antode Pharmaceuticals, said.
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