COVID-19 in Brief
COVID-19 clinical trials, lifted bans, and an improving reputation… What’s new in business?
This article is part of our special focus on "traditional" pharma: The Small Molecule Manufacturer (read more here). You can find more articles from The Small Manufacturer here.
- Both the FDA and EMA have issued statements about the potential dangers of using hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, two antimalarial drugs, in COVID-19 patients. There has been high interest in using the drugs as potential COVID-19 treatments. Studies are ongoing, but some early results suggest they may not be effective.
- Indian officials have partially lifted the ban on the export of a number of medicines, including hydroxychloroquine and acetaminophen. The country initially banned the export of some drugs to quell the rising domestic concern about drug shortages. The decision to reverse the ban came after a call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump.
- Data published by APCO Worldwide indicates a shift in the American public’s perception of the pharma industry; 58 percent of survey respondents said US companies are more likely to create breakthrough therapies, while 68 percent were optimistic that a treatment would be developed for COVID-19. “That shows me that the public has a hopeful attitude, and almost enthusiasm, about what companies can do to solve this problem. And what a change that is from years of people basically beating up on pharmaceutical companies,” said Jack Kalavritinos, a senior director at APCO.
After finishing my degree, I envisioned a career in science communications. However, life took an unexpected turn and I ended up teaching abroad. Though the experience was amazing and I learned a great deal from it, I jumped at the opportunity to work for Texere. I'm excited to see where this new journey takes me!
