TOKYO -- Clinical trials for a COVID-19 pill have kicked off across the world, as pharmaceutical companies work on a simpler and more affordable way to treat patients and help finally bring the pandemic under control.
U.S.-based Merck is working with startup Ridgeback Biotherapeutics on an oral antiviral treatment called molnupiravir. A final Phase 3 trial for the drug is currently being conducted worldwide, including in Japan, and its findings could become available as early as October.
