Philippines grants first emergency approval for anti-COVID pillMANILA, Philippines — The Philippines’ drug regulator has given the first emergency use authorization for an anti-COVID pill, allowing wider use of the drug that was previously only available through select health facilities. Food and Drug Administration director general Eric Domingo said Thursday on state-run People’s Television that it has granted emergency use authorization for Molnarz, a brand of the antiviral molnupiravir. Domingo said the drug is indicated for adults aged 18 and above with mild to moderate COVID-19 who have risk factors for developing severe illness. He added that the oral pill is not recommended for pregnant women, those who may become pregnant and lactating women as it is not yet known whether the drug is safe for them. Prior to this regulatory approval, hospitals have been using molnupiravir on patients through a compassionate special permit.

Source: Philippine Star December 23, 2021 06:39 UTC