Merck files with FDA for emergency use of molnupiravir in at risk COVID-19 adults

US pharma giant Merck & Co (NYSE: MRK) has submitted an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) application to the US Food and Drug Administration for molnupiravir, an investigational oral antiviral medicine, for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults who are at risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization.

Molnupiravir is being developed by Merck in collaboration with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics. Ridgeback received an upfront payment from Merck and is also eligible to receive contingent payments dependent upon the achievement of certain developmental and regulatory approval milestones.

The companies are actively working with regulatory agencies worldwide to submit applications for emergency use or marketing authorization in the coming months.