BANGKOK (NNT) - Cooperation between the government and the private sector has led to a successful synthesis of the precursor of favipiravir, an antiviral drug used in treating COVID-19 cases. This achievement will reduce import dependence, while ensuring the security of medicines in Thailand.
Deputy Government Spokeswoman, Dr. Ratchada Thanadirek, said Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, has followed the country’s favipiravir research and development progress, as it is part of the government’s strategy to drive the economy forward.
The National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) has signed an agreement with the Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO) and PTT Public Company Limited to jointly conduct studies on synthesizing the precursor of favipiravir for commercial production and maintaining the country’s medicine security. The cooperation has made significant progress, with these agencies being able to synthesize the precursor of favipiravir while complying with standards. The cost is low, and the process does not need imported raw materials. Currently, 95 percent of the raw materials are imported. This is one of the cooperative models between the government and the private sector to enhance the country’s pharmaceutical industry.
The GPO expects that this antiviral drug, which has undergone research and development, will be registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this month. Once Thailand is able to produce favipiravir at a much lower cost, its supply will be sufficient for COVID-19 patients.
National News Bureau Of Thailand