The CEO of Novartis, Vas Narasimhan has advocated that Chloroquine used in treating malaria is the best hope against combatting the spread of COVID-19 and stopping it once and for all.
According to the Novartis CEO, Chloroquine which it produces to treat Malaria, arthritis and lupus is the company’s answer to the raging COVID-19 pandemic.
See Also: COVID-19: US FDA grants emergency authorisation for hydroxychloroquine prescription
As reported by a Swiss newspaper, Novartis pharmaceutical pledged to donate 130 million doses of Chloroquine.
The company is also supporting clinical trials of the drug needed for its mainstream approval as advocated by United States President, Donald Trump.
The CEO further revealed that global pharmaceutical giants like Bayer and Teva are also donating Chloroquine based drugs to the global effort against COVID-19, while Gilead Sciences is also testing an experimental drug, remdesivir against the virus.
Speaking further on the use of Chloroquine in treating the virus, Narasimhan said:
“Pre-clinical studies in animals as well as the first data from clinical studies show that hydroxychloroquine kills the coronavirus.
“We’re working with Swiss hospitals on possible treatment protocols for the clinical use of the drug, but it’s too early to say anything definitively.”
He added that Novartis was actively seeking for an additional active drug ingredient to make more Chloroquine if the clinical trials are successful.
He Finally revealed that three additional drugs, Javaki used for cancer treatment, Gilenya, used for multiple sclerosis and Ilaris used for fever all produced by Novartis are also being considered as possible treatment for the effects of COVID-19.
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