New strength variants of Favipiravir brands ‘PiFLU’ and ‘Favenza’ have been launched by FDC Limited. These drugs are used to treat mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 in India. The 800mg version of the drugs will help reduce the number of tablets to be taken by any patient by 75%. Currently, patients are required to take 18 pills on the first day followed by 8 tablets every day for the next 13 days. Drug Controller General of India (DCGI)-approved Favipiravir is a broad-spectrum anti-viral agent and prevents viral replication. PiFLU and Favenza reduce progression to severe or critical conditions of COVID-19 in 92.5% of cases by Day 10, and 62.5% at Day 5. This oral anti-viral drug has been shown reducing the viral replication cycle leading to quicker clinical recovery in COVID-19 patients with mild to moderate symptoms. With innovations such as these, FDC continues to stand by India in its fight against COVID-19. These prescription-only drugs will be available at all retail medical outlets and hospital pharmacies across the country, from 1 November.
