India COVID-19 Update: Antivirals, Eyes On HCQ-Azithromycin Data

Cipla Among Firms Prepping Favipiravir, Remdesivir, Baloxavir Generics

Development work for antivirals such as favipiravir and remdesivir seen as potential treatments for coronavirus is underway in India, with the former’s off-patent status making it more attractive. All eyes are also on data from a French study which highlights the potential of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin as a COVID-19 treatment.

As the world scrambles to repurpose approved treatments and develop new ones to tackle the deadly coronavirus, Indian firms are moving quietly alongside in sync, hoping to accelerate development activities or scale up plans for such potential therapies. Domestic firms are also keeping close watch on developments around an encouraging French study on the potential of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin as a treatment for COVID-19.

Cipla Ltd., which has already indicated its readiness to move in quickly with generic supplies of AbbVie Inc..’s...