Its been almost two years since Coronavirus hit the entire circumference of the globe. With thousands of patients relentlessly dying in a small timeframe, the lethal virus has immensely affected the global social environment. While majority of the countries are vaccinating their citizens against the disease, it still seems uncertain as if the vaccine is competent enough to deal with Coronavirus. However, Merck and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics have applied for US authorization of their medicine Molnupiravir. This medicine has been greatly affective against Coronavirus. Upon successful authorization, Molnupiravir could be the first-ever pill to cure Coronavirus.
Merck Background
Merck & Co. is an American medicine company very-well known for pharmaceutical drugs, vaccines, and animal health products. The company became widely famous for making the first smallpox vaccine for commercial use in the US.
Ridgeback Biotherapeutics Background
Ridgeback Biotherapeutics surfaced on the face of pharmaceutical industry in 2016. The company is known for developing potential medications to treat infectious diseases that have limited or no treatment options.
What Will Happen After Approval?
If Molnupiravir gets approval by Food and Drug Administration, it would be the first pill to treat Coronavirus. It is worth mentioning that all the other FDA-backed treatments against the virus require an IV or injection.
What Does Molnupiravir Do?
It is an antiviral medicine that patients can take to minimize the affect and symptoms of Coronavirus. The pill also helps in speedy recovery of the patients suffering from the virus.
According to the senior vice president at Merck’s infectious disease unit, the medicine is a vital addition in treating Coronavirus as it minimizes the hurdles and cautions involved in infusion centres. Patients with mild to moderate symptoms can take the pill at their homes and feel better without having to reach the infusion facilities. Dr. Nicholas Kartsonis said, “The value here is that it’s a pill so you don’t have to deal with the infusion centers and all the factors around that. I think it’s a very powerful tool to add to the toolbox”.