Can Merck's Antiviral for COVID Succeed Where Gilead's Failed?
Earlier this month, Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced it was ending clinical trials of its antiviral pill candidate for treating COVID-19, molnupiravir, on account of the potential therapy's high level of effectiveness. The pill could cut the risk of hospitalization or death by as much as 50%, and the company has wasted no time in applying to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) after terminating the trial.
That sure seems like great news, but investors will want to continue following closely to see how the application progresses as things don't always go in a straight line. Take Gilead Sciences' (NASDAQ: GILD) antiviral drug, remdesivir. At the start of the pandemic, it was also touted as a powerful intervention. But views on this medication now vary. Will Merck's drug follow a similar or better path?
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Source Fool.com
