Approval of an antiviral pill that reduces the risk of hospitalization and death in people with mild to moderate COVID-19.
Lagevrio, which was developed by drug-maker Merck, has been deemed safe and effective by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the United Kingdom.
Clinical trials showed the pill is most effective when taken during the early stages of infection with the MHRA recommending its use as soon as possible after receiving a positive test.
It is currently approved for people with at least one factor for developing serious illness because of the virus, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, or those older than 60.
“Lagevrio is another therapeutic to add to our armoury against COVID-19,” says Dr. June Raine, Chief Executive with the MHRA. “It is also the world’s first approved antiviral for this disease that can be taken by mouth rather than administered intravenously. This is important, because it means it can be administered outside of a hospital setting, before COVID-19 has progressed to a severe stage. With no compromises on quality, safety and effectiveness, the public can trust that the MHRA has conducted a robust and thorough assessment of the data.”
The company has sent information on Lagevrio to Health Canada, who is currently reviewing its effectiveness.
Merck has stated the pill could reduce hospitalizations by as much as 50 per cent.
