NEW DELHI: A new study revealed that a five-day course of antiviral drug, Molnupiravir, could be effective against highly contagious Omicron and other variants of concern (VOCs).
The study also stated that Molnupiravir may be better than monoclonal antibodies and Remedivisir.
“From the available evidence, Molnupiravir appears to be a reasonably useful drug in reducing deaths and hospitalizations in adult patients with C-19 at high risk, with a relatively lower cost.
“Dr. Anoop Misra, Padma Shri, Executive Chairman and Director, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Fortis C-DOC.
“Molnupiravir could be a useful drug in non-pregnant unvaccinated adults with C-19 who are at an increased risk of severity, including hospitalization,” said Dr. Misra.
The study, published in the journal, Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, was conducted by a team of doctors at Fortis C-DOC, GD Hospital and Diabetes Institute, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, and the Diabetes Foundation.
It pointed out that “subgroup analysis found Molnupiravir was effective irrespective of strain although no data is available for its effect on Omicron in particular”, stated the study.
“Unlike monoclonal antibodies, the mechanism of action of Molnupiravir is independent of mutations in the spike protein, and it is expected to work against Omicron, theoretically.
Indeed, in vitro study of VeroE6-GFP cells does indicate that Molnupiravir retain their activity against VOCs of Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron,” the journal added.
“However, Molnupiravir is effective only when used within five days from the onset of Omicron symptoms. Inappropriate use without assessing risk may pose an unknown long-term risk of public concern,” cautioned Dr. Misra.
0.31% of drug samples tested in 2020-21 declared as spurious or adulterated
USFDA authorised Bebtelovimab as antibody drug
Govt to make registration certificate mandatory for sale of medical devices
Online portal for submission of Clinical Trial applications: ICMR
USFDA gives nod to Zydus for Roflumilast Tablets
Pharmacist के बिना बिजनेस शुरू करने का मौका, 12वीं पास बेच सकेंगे Medical Devices
Imp: 15 things not to do when using a Rapid Antigen Covid Test
Licenses of two Pharma Companies suspended: NDPS Act
WHO adds this drug to Covid medicines list for severe cases
Latest Notifications regarding Pharmaceuticals
For informative videos by The Health Master, click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on Medical Store / Pharmacy, click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on the news regarding Pharma / Medical Devices / Cosmetics / Homoeopathy etc., click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on consumer awareness, click on the below YouTube icon:
