Remdesivir, which is awaiting regulatory approval as a coronavirus treatment, is being used in a number of clinical trials across the globe. In a project designed by regulators, it has also been made available, on an individual basis, to some severely ill patients who cannot participate in clinical trials. Biotech company Gilead Sciences is expanding access to its antiviral drug remdesivir as an experimental coronavirus treatment.
Study Helps to Identify Medications Which Are Safe to Use in Treatment of COVID-19
A recent study has found that there is no evidence for or against the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen for patients with COVID-19.The study, led by researchers at King’s College London, also found other types of drugs, such as TNF blockers and JAK inhibitors safe to use. As more people catch the disease, researchers will continue to investigate how it interacts with commonly used medications and make further guidance recommendations.
Fujifilm Ramps up Production of Flu Drug Avigan as Possible COVID-19 Treatment
Fujifilm says it is prepared to offer Avigan to any country that wants to try it as a potential treatment for COVID-19. But even as it has restarted production, the Japanese drugmaker feels compelled to set the record straight about the influenza drug. The drug, developed by Fujifilm unit Toyama Chemical, was approved in 2014 as an influenza treatment but only to be used if other treatments prove ineffective against a novel or re-emerging influenza virus.