2023-09-28 13:23:19
**Molnupiravir Raises Concerns about the Development of Dangerous Corona Variants**
September 28, 2023, 2:38 p.m – Michelle Brey
Researchers from Great Britain have raised concerns about the antiviral drug molnupiravir, which is being used against the coronavirus. In a study published in the specialist magazine Nature, scientists warned that the drug could promote the development of dangerous corona variants. Despite its potential risks, molnupiravir has not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Molnupiravir is designed to inhibit the replication of the coronavirus by causing errors in its reproduction. However, researchers led by Theo Sanderson from the Francis Crick Institute in London found that the drug has led to the spread of certain mutations. In some cases, treatment with molnupiravir has resulted in viable viruses, which can be transmitted to others and potentially lead to the development of new, dangerous variants.
While concerns about molnupiravir’s potential to contribute to the development of variants of concern (VOCs) were raised during the approval process, concrete evidence is still lacking. Sanderson stated, “Our evidence shows that a particular antiviral drug, molnupiravir, also leads to new mutations and increases genetic diversity in the surviving virus population.”
The study analyzed more than 15 million Sars-CoV-2 genomes using data from Great Britain, Japan, Australia, and the USA. It revealed the widespread use of molnupiravir in these countries, adding to the urgency of studying the effects of the drug.
In Germany, the corona drug Lagevrio (molnupiravir) has been used since early 2022 without official approval. However, on February 24, 2023, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) refused to approve the drug due to its undetectable benefits. As a result, Lagevrio can no longer be sold in Germany.
The researchers behind the study emphasized the importance of their findings for evaluating the risks and benefits of molnupiravir treatment. They recommend that health authorities continue to monitor the effects of the drug closely.
In a separate development, an Italian study caused a stir by suggesting that “Neanderthal genes” could contribute to a severe course of COVID-19.
With the concerns surrounding molnupiravir, the race to find effective treatments for the coronavirus continues. The scientific community and health authorities must closely evaluate the potential risks and benefits to protect against the development of dangerous corona variants.]
#Study #shows #dangerous #variants