2023-09-29 06:38:09
Title: Concerns Raised over Molnupiravir’s Potential for Dangerous Corona Variants
Author: Michelle Brey
Date and Time of Publication: September 29, 2023, 6:38 a.m
Frankfurt – Researchers from Great Britain have raised concerns about the antiviral drug molnupiravir, which is being used against the coronavirus. A study published in the specialist magazine Nature reiterates the concerns that have existed for some time regarding the drug’s potential to promote the development of dangerous corona variants. It is important to note that molnupiravir has not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that works by inhibiting the replication of the coronavirus. However, according to a study led by Theo Sanderson from the Francis Crick Institute in London, the drug has led to the spread of certain mutations. In some cases, treatment with molnupiravir could result in viable viruses, which can be transmitted to other people and potentially lead to the development of new, dangerous variants.
During the approval process for molnupiravir, concerns were raised about its potential to increase the rate of development of variants of concern (VOCs). The scientists behind the study refer to another scientific paper that highlights these concerns.
While there is currently no concrete evidence that molnupiravir has produced more dangerous corona variants, Sanderson states that their evidence shows that the antiviral drug leads to new mutations and increases genetic diversity in the surviving virus population. He further adds, “We know that after a significant number of mutations, these viruses can still be alive and, in some cases, still transmissible.”
The study analyzed over 15 million Sars-CoV-2 genomes, using data from Great Britain, Japan, Australia, and the USA. These countries have widely used the drug in their fight against the pandemic.
In Germany, the corona drug Lagevrio (molnupiravir) has been used since the beginning of 2022, despite lacking approval from the European Medicines Agency. The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) allowed its use based on the Medical Needs Supply Guarantee Ordinance (MedBVSV). However, on February 24, 2023, the EMA refused approval due to the undetectable benefit of the drug. Consequently, it is no longer available for sale in Germany.
The findings of this study are significant for the ongoing assessment of the risks and benefits of treatment with molnupiravir. The researchers recommend that health authorities continue to closely study the effects of the drug.
In other news related to the coronavirus, an Italian study has recently caught attention. It suggests that “Neanderthal genes” may contribute to a severe course of the disease.
The concerns raised about molnupiravir’s potential for dangerous corona variants highlight the importance of rigorous evaluation and continued research on any medication or treatment used in the battle against the pandemic.
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