Britain To Test Merck - Ridgeback Biotherapeutics' COVID-19 Antiviral Pill In Hospitalized Patients
British scientists will start testing Merck & Co Inc (NYSE: MRK) and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics' COVID-19 antiviral pill molnupiravir as a possible treatment for patients hospitalized with COVID-19, reported Reuters.
The pill is approved in Britain for use in people with mild to moderate COVID-19. Still, it is unknown whether it would work in patients hospitalized with severe illness, researchers of the RECOVERY trial said.
The study will compare 800 mg doses of molnupiravir, given twice daily for five days, with standard care for adult patients in hospitals because of COVID-19.
Related: Reddy's To Launch Generic Version Of Merck's COVID-19 Drug At Reddy's To Launch Generic Version Of Merck's COVID-19 Drug At $0.50/Pill: Reuters.50/Pill: Reuters.
"Adding molnupiravir (to the study) will allow us to study this drug on its own, but also in combination with other COVID-19 treatments," said Peter Horby, joint chief investigator of the trial and Oxford University professor.
Related: UK Calls For Additional Doses Of COVID-19 Antivirals From Merck, Pfizer.
Price Action: MRK shares are down 3.14% at $77.47 during the market session on the last check Monday.
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