UK becomes first country to approve ‘game-changing’ COVID-19 pill that can be taken at home

The American multinational pharmaceutical company “Merck” won U.K. authorization for its new antiviral coronavirus treatment, the first such approval for an oral medicine to treat adults suffering mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19.

Molnupiravir can be taken by those who have tested positive and have at least one risk factor for developing severe illness, such as obesity, being over 60, diabetes or heart disease.

After promising trial results, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has said it is safe and effective at reducing the risk of hospital admission and death in people with mild to moderate COVID who are at extra risk from the virus.

Developed by Ridgeback Biotherapeutics and Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), the drug works by interfering with the virus’s replication.

It inhibits COVID-19 from multiplying, keeping levels low in the body and ultimately reducing the severity of the disease.

The drug should be taken as soon as possible following a positive test and within the first five days, the MHRA advises.

Sky News