Glenmark Pharmaceuticals launches COVID-19 drug priced at ₹103 per tablet.

The DCGI has approved Glenmark Pharmaceuticals' launch of COVID-19 drug FabiFlu. Each 200 mg tablet will cost Rs 103.

The DCGI has approved Glenmark Pharmaceuticals' launch of COVID-19 drug FabiFlu. Each 200 mg tablet will cost Rs 103.On June 19, 2020, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals received approval for the marketing and manufacturing of antiviral drug Favipiravir from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). The oral drug will be sold under the brand name FabiFlu, for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Covid-19 symptoms.

It will be sold in a pack of 34 oral tablets of 200 mg each for ₹3,500 and the cost of the 14-day treatment will be an estimated Rs 14,000. Each tablet of 200 mg will cost ₹103.

The drug manufacturer said Favipiravir has shown clinical improvement of up to 88 percent in mild to moderate COVID-19 cases and offers a rapid reduction in viral load within four days. The drug has also been used in Russia, Japan, and China to treat COVID-19 patients and has proved successful, according to the company.

It can be used on patients with comorbid conditions such as diabetes and heart disease but is not recommended for those suffering from severe kidney or liver ailments, pregnant and lactating women.

FabiFlu tablets will be available for sale in hospitals and retail pharmacies across the country by early next week. It is to be administered under strict medical supervision and will not be available over-the-counter.

The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.