MSD Submits Emergency Use Authorization Request for COVID-19 Oral Treatment to US FDA

Experimental COVID-19 Treatment Molnupiravir by U.S. Pharmaceutical Company Merck
[Image Source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] The U.S. pharmaceutical company MSD has applied to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use authorization of the pill "Molnupiravir," developed to treat COVID-19.

According to AFP and other foreign media on the 11th (local time), MSD stated in a press release that day that it has applied for emergency use authorization in the U.S. for Molnupiravir for COVID-19 patients who show moderate symptoms but are at risk of progressing to severe illness. The FDA is expected to thoroughly review the safety and efficacy data of Molnupiravir and reach a decision on approval within a few weeks.

If emergency use authorization is granted, Molnupiravir will become the first oral treatment for COVID-19. The pill can be taken at home by COVID-19 patients without visiting hospitals, reducing the burden on medical facilities and helping to curb the rapid spread of COVID-19.

AP News predicted that the spread of COVID-19 could be addressed through two approaches: drug treatment and vaccination.

Earlier this month, MSD announced research results showing that Molnupiravir reduces the risk of hospitalization for COVID-19 patients by half. A company representative stated, "We are cooperating with regulatory agencies worldwide to apply for emergency use and sales authorization in other countries within months."

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