Avigan trial to stretch beyond June as Japan's coronavirus cases plunge

Exclusive: Participants have reached only 70% of target level

20200606 Avigan

Clinical trials of Avigan began in March with the goal of testing 96 patients to examine its efficacy and safety. (Photo by Koji Uema) 

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Potential coronavirus treatment Avigan is now expected to take until July at the earliest to complete a clinical trial, further delaying government approval in Japan, Nikkei has learned.

A sharp decline in COVID-19 cases in Japan has made it difficult to secure enough patients for testing, according to people familiar with the matter.

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