37 coronavirus patients enrolled in Avigan trials

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 37 Covid-19 patients have enrolled in the clinical trials for Japan’s anti-influenza drug Avigan as a cure against the cardiovascular and respiratory disease, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.

“As to the Avigan trial, last January 28, we have a total of 37 patients enrolled in the trial,” Health undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in an online press briefing.

Of the 37 patients, 25 have completed their medication, six are being treated, and four have withdrawn, according to Vergeire. She added the clinical trials being conducted on two other patients was stopped but did not provide further details.

Avigan, the Japanese brand for favipiravir, reportedly yielded positive results in treating mild cases of Covid-19 in China.

Last year, the Japanese government delivered the Avigan tablets for 100 patients in the Philippines who will participate in the trials.

The DOH earlier identified the Philippine General Hospital and Sta. Ana Hospital in Manila, Quirino Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City, and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Hospital in Caloocan City as study sites for the trials.

The health department has earmarked P18 million for the clinical trials as it hopes to find a cure for COVID-19.

EDV