Merck's COVID-19 Pill Authorized by FDA

Merck’s Molnupiravir Receives FDA Emergency Use Authorization

The United States will soon have an additional option in the fight against COVID-19. The Food and Drug Administration has granted emergency use authorization to Merck’s Molnupiravir antiviral pill, as reported by the Associated Press.

How Molnupiravir Works

This treatment functions by hindering the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It achieves this by introducing deliberate “errors” into the virus’ genetic material. Ideally, this intervention will prevent mild to moderate COVID-19 cases from progressing to severe illness in patients considered high-risk.

Availability and Usage Considerations

Despite this approval, the utilization of Molnupiravir may be less widespread than Pfizer’s Paxlovid. Merck’s pill is currently authorized only for individuals aged 18 years and older.

Concerns regarding potential impacts on bone and cartilage development have restricted its use in younger patients. Furthermore, the FDA has issued warnings regarding its use during pregnancy or when attempting pregnancy.

Individuals undergoing treatment must employ birth control measures.
Women are advised to continue contraception for a specified period following treatment completion.
Men are required to wait three months before attempting conception.

Potential Impact on Hospitalizations and Deaths

Nevertheless, Molnupiravir represents a potentially valuable addition to the arsenal of tools available to mitigate COVID-19 hospitalizations and fatalities. While the US has secured enough of Pfizer’s pill to treat 10 million patients, Merck’s drug will be sufficient to treat 3.1 million.

Even with limited effectiveness, this supply could potentially prevent severe illness in hundreds of thousands of individuals. The availability of multiple antiviral options is crucial for managing the ongoing pandemic.

Note: This report was originally published by Engadget.