Celltrion's coronavirus drug shows promise in animal tests

South Korean pharmaceutical records 100-fold viral load reduction

The company said the pre-clinical study was conducted in an animal model in collaboration with one of the Korean National Universities, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine. (Photo courtesy of Celltrion)

JADA NAGUMO, Nikkei staff writer

June 1, 2020 12:29 JST

TOKYO -- South Korean drugmaker Celltrion has recorded positive preclinical results for its coronavirus treatment, the company announced on Monday.

The pharmaceutical group said the experimental drug, which assessed efficacy in animals, demonstrated a 100-fold reduction in the viral load of COVID-19.