TOKYO: Antiviral influenza drug formation to cure coronavirus by a Japanese medical firm has entered its final stage of human testing.
Fujifilm Toyama Chemical has reached the Phase III of testing Avigan or favipiravir, antiviral drug, that would be conducted on humans. Avigan proved as a helpful drug to contain Japan’s influenza outbreaks in 2014.
Avigan halts the production of copies of RNA polymerase that is linked with the coronavirus. Therefore, it is expected that it will have an antiviral effect on SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19.
Fujifilm owner stated: “Fujifilm will sincerely cooperate with the supply of Avigan to such countries in consultation and coordination with the Japanese Government to combat COVID-19 and contribute to tackling the spread of this global pandemic as soon as possible.”
An official at Japan’s science and technology department told that Avigan has taken less time to cure the patients. Mr. Zhang told that the drug has cured patients from 11 to 4 days during trial on 80 participants that took place in Shenzhen.
Avigam is not available in pharmacies in Japan and worldwide. It is manufactured and sent on the orders of the Japanese government.
