Lupin unveils COVID-19 drug under brand name Covihalt for Rs 49 per tablet

Mumbai: Pharma major Lupin Limited has announced the launch of its Favipiravir in India under the brand name Covihalt® for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19.

Favipiravir has received authorization from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for emergency use.

Lupin's Covihalt® dosage strength has been developed keeping in mind convenience of administration. It is available as 200 mg tablets in the form of a strip of 10 tablets, and priced at Rs. 49 per tablet.

Commenting on the development, Rajeev Sibal, President - India Region Formulations (IRF) said, "Lupin has always been committed to the fight against life-threatening diseases. COVID-19 is a global pandemic and in India we are seeing a surge in the number of cases on a daily basis. In these tough times, it is our duty to support the nation in fighting this pandemic and ensuring affordable drugs are made available for impacted patients. Covihalt®, Lupin's Favipiravir drug, is a vital step in this direction. We believe that we can leverage our expertise in managing widespread community diseases like TB to proactively reach patients across India and ensure access to Covihalt® through our strong distribution network and field force."

According to Dr Rajesh Swarnakar, National Secretary Indian Chest Society, "In any pandemic, it is imperative to enforce rapid health management efforts which include disease control through effective and safe medication. Favipiravir has shown excellent results in the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19. We remain optimistic about its indispensable role in combating the disease."

Dr Agam Vora, Ex- President of Geriatric Society Of India, added, "More than ever before, it is at this time that we need pharma companies to come together and direct their resources at fulfilling the need for affordable, effective and safe drugs for the treatment of COVID-19. Favipiravir is one such option which has demonstrated highly effective results in clinical studies with an efficacy of over 80%, without any significant safety concern."

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