The National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has issued emergency use authorization (EUA) for Favipiravir, Remdesivir, Regdanvimab, and Molnupiravir COVID-19 therapeutic drugs, an official announced in Depok, West Java.
BPOM’s Production Supervision Director for Drugs, Narcotics, Psychoactive Drugs, and Precursors Togi Junice Hutadjulu stated on Thursday that the EUA was given as approval for drug use during a public health emergency.
During a discussion event with the Student Executive Board of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Indonesia, (BEM FF UI), Hutadjulu explained that in the 3rd edition of the informatory published by BPOM, the names of COVID-19 therapeutic drugs that belong to the antiviral group, included Favipiravir, Remdesivir, Molnupiravir, Proxalutamide, and Oseltamivir.
Hutadjulu stated that despite BPOM’s data showing that the Indonesian pharmaceutical industry is still in the preparation stage for producing COVID-19 antiviral drugs, some of them have been actively producing these drugs. However, she reminded that no drug is really safe, as all have side effects.
Hence, she emphasized that the public should check the official BPOM website or the “Halo BPOM” Application to obtain accurate information related to medicines, so as to avoid hoaxes.
Meanwhile, BEM FF UI held a public discussion to review a series of research and development conducted by medical personnel for curative care for COVID-19 patients.
Earlier, Hutadjulu highlighted that the BPOM supports COVID-19 drug development research by involving all from the upstream to downstream sectors and accelerating product downstreaming to become commercial, according to BPOM’s website.
“BPOM is ready to continue cross-sectoral cooperation in encouraging development of the pharmaceutical industry in enhancing the independence and competitiveness of Indonesian products,” she stated.
Source: Antara News