DOH experts studying use of flu drug for COVID

MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has directed a group of experts to look into a Japanese anti-flu medicine that shows potential in fighting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Duque has asked the technical advisory group of the Department of Health to study the developments related to the anti-flu drug favipiravir (brand name Avigan), which reportedly showed promising results in two recent clinical trials.

The anti-flu medication was seen effective against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

“The technical advisory group is studying it now and they will make recommendations whether or not it can be used in our hospitals here,” he said yesterday.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) director general Eric Domingo said the drug is not yet produced commercially, but they are planning to make representations to bring it to the Philippines in case it gets approved for use for COVID-19 patients.