Merck's COVID-19 pill approved for first time in Britain

Britain on Thursday became the first country in the world to approve a potentially game-changing COVID-19 antiviral pill jointly developed by Merck (MRK.N) and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, in a boost to the fight against the pandemic.

 

This is the first oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19 to get approved, with the green light coming ahead of potential U.S. regulatory clearance.

 

The drug, to be branded Lagevrio in Britain, has been closely watched since data last month showed it could halve the chances of dying or being hospitalised for those most at risk of developing severe COVID-19 when given early in the illness.

 

Last month, Britain agreed a deal with Merck to secure 480,000 courses of molnupiravir.