Merck’s COVID-19 Pill Shows Positive Results

Merck Seeks FDA Approval for COVID-19 Pill

Merck (MRK) and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics’ COVID-19 medicine, molnupiravir, proved to be successful in preventing COVID-19 patients from becoming critically ill and dying. In a pivotal late-stage trial for the pill, the drug companies found that the medicine cut the risk of hospitalization and death in half for people suffering from mild to moderate COVID-19.

The drug proved to be so effective that Merck and Ridgeback stopped enrolling more subjects in their trial. The drug companies are now in talks with the US Food and Drug Administration to receive emergency use authorization. That could come by the end of the year, providing doctors with a much-needed COVID-19 treatment which can be administered at home.

First At-Home Oral Treatment for COVID-19

If the FDA signs off on Merck and Ridgeback’s COVID-19 treatment, it would be the first oral medicine to treat the disease. It can be prescribed when patients first start showing symptoms to slow the spread of the virus and prevent symptoms from worsening. This could be a game-changer in dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks and has the potential to makemake COVID-19 manageable at home, similar to the flu. The drug also proved effective against variants of COVID-19 including Delta.

Merck plans to produce 10 million doses of the medicine by the end of 2021 and to increase production in 2022. The US already inked a $1.2 billion deal with Merck to purchase 1.7 million doses if the drug gets the green light from the FDA.

Merck Finally at the Table

The results of Merck’s study positions the drug company to play a bigger part in the pandemic after several setbacks. Two of the COVID-19 vaccines Merck developed failed to be effective. The company also had to stop development on an experimental COVID-19 drug.

As it stands, options to treat COVID-19 remain limited. Gilead Sciences’ (GILD) remdesivir, which has full FDA approval, can only be used in hospital settings. Meanwhile, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (REGN) and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) treatments for patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 require an intravenous infusion. Without a doubt vaccines remain the best way to fight the pandemic. But Merck’s new drug, if approved, will be able to help those who do get sick.

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.
The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.
Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser
SoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.
SOSS21100402