Glenmark launches Covid-19 drug after DGCI approval

Glenmark has become the first pharmaceutical company in India to receive regulatory approval for oral antiviral Favipiravir, for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19.

TheMumbai-based drug firm had on Friday received manufacturing and marketingapproval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

The antiviral oral pill has shown considerable improvement among age groups from 20 to 90. The medicine can be used in COVID-19 patients with co-morbid conditions such as diabetes and heart disease with mild to moderate COVID19 symptoms. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Chairman and Managing Director Glenn Saldanha said, "This approval comes at a time when cases in India are spiralling like never before, putting tremendous pressure on our healthcare system". He further added, "We hope the availability of effective treatment will considerably help assuage this pressure and offer patients in India a much needed and timely therapy option."