30th Dec 2021 11:19
(Alliance News) - Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd on Thursday launched what it claims to be the world's first generic version of Pfizer Inc's Covid-19 treatment.
Pfizer's oral therapy Paxlovid was granted emergency use authorisation by the US Food & Drug Administration last week.
The Bangladesh-based generic drug maker noted that Bangladesh's Directorate General of Drug Administration on Thursday also granted emergency use authorisation, which is to treat mild-to-moderate Covid-19 in patients 12 years and older.
Bangladesh-based pharmaceutical company noted the antiviral pill showed almost 90% efficacy in preventing hospitalisations and deaths in high-risk patients, while recent test data from Pfizer suggests the drug retains its effectiveness against the fast-spreading Omicron variant of the coronavirus.
Beximco will market the Paxlovid generic under the brand name Bexovid, initially in Bangladesh only.
"We are pleased to add this breakthrough therapy to our portfolio. It is further testament to our commitment to making affordable treatments accessible as soon as possible," commented Beximco Managing Director Nazmul Hassan.
"We believe that Bexovid has the potential to be a powerful tool in combating the ongoing pandemic."
Beximco shares were up 1.6% at 110.25 pence each in London on Thursday morning.
By Will Paige; [email protected]
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