UK becomes first to accept Merck's COVID-19 pill 

UK becomes first to accept Merck's COVID-19 pill 
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UNITED KINGDOM: Britain has recently approved Molnupiravir, COVID-19 antiviral pill developed by Merck & Co Inc and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, for use in people with mild to moderate COVID-19.

Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK recommended Molnupiravir to those with mild to moderate COVID-19 with at least one risk factor for developing a critical illness, such as heart disease, obesity and older age diabetes. Hence, it became the first country globally to take this decision in a fight against the pandemic.

The regulator said it would be administered shortly following a positive COVID-19 test and within five days of the onset of symptoms, citing clinical data.