Dr. Reddy's To Launch COVID-19 Merck Drug

Molflu (Molnupiravir) will be introduced at Rs 35 per capsule by Dr Reddy's Laboratories to treat Covid-19 in the country, a spokesperson of the Hyderabad-based drugmaker said in a statement.

With 10 capsules per strip, the total course of 40 pills over 5 days would cost Rs 1,400. It added among the most affordable treatment options available to patients.

"Molflu is expected to be available from early next week in pharmacies throughout the country with particular focus on states with a high caseload of Covid-19," the spokesperson noted.

Last year, Dr Reddy's entered into a non-exclusive voluntary licensing agreement with MSD (Merck Sharpe Dohme) to manufacture and supply Molnupiravir to India and over 100 low and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Last week, Dr Reddy's received emergency-use authorization from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) to manufacture and market oral antiviral drug Molnupiravir capsules 200 mg for the treatment of adult patients with Covid-19 who have a high risk of progression of the disease, including hospitalization or death.