UK, first country in the world to approve Lagevrio (Molnupiravir) pill to treat Covid

The UK Medicines regulator MHRA, became the first country in the world to approve the antiviral Lagevrio (Molnupiravir) , a pill designed for the most vulnerable and the immunosuppressed and to treat people who are ill with Covid. Molnupiravir will be given twice a day to vulnerable patients recently diagnosed with the disease with in five days. The clinical trials, the pill, originally developed to treat flu, nearly halved the risk of hospitalisation and death in people with mild to moderate Covid-19, obese and old age over 60 years, diabetes nellitus or heart disease. Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the treatment was a “Gamechanger”.

Developed by Ridgeback Biotherapeutics and Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD). Lagevrio works by interfering with the virus’ replication. This prevents it from ,multiplying, keeping virus levels low in the body and therefore reducing the severity of the disease.

Lagevrio is most effective when taken during the early stages of infection and so the MHRA recommends it use as soon as possible following a positive Covid-19 test and within five days of symptoms onset.

Dr. June Raine, MHRA Chief Executive said:, “Following a rigorous review of data by our expert scientists and clinicians, we are satisfied that Lagevrio (Molnupiravir) is safe and effective for those at risk of developing severe Covid-19 disease and have granted its approval.”