Natco Pharma seeks emergency nod for its COVID-19 capsules; rises over 6 per cent

The company today announced that it has applied to Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) of India for the approval of phase 3 clinical trials of ‘Molnupiravir’ capsules, which have shown promising results during the treatment of COVID-19 positive patient.  

The pre-clinical data has shown that the capsule has broad anti-influenza activity, which includes highly potent inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. During its pre-clinical trials, the patients treated with this capsule achieved response within 5 days of therapy indicating that the duration of treatment with Molnupiravir is short. It also has the additional advantage of being an oral therapy.  

The company is hoping that CDSCO would give their drug an emergency approval based on “compassionate use” for patients. This kind of approval is given for investigational drugs so, a patient with an immediately life-threatening condition can gain access to the drug. The company is ready to launch the product this month if it gains approval from CDSCO.  

At 10.30 am on Monday, its share price was trading 6.25 per cent higher at Rs 932.70 on BSE.