New Delhi: Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Tuesday gave emergency use approval to US drugmaker Eli Lilly and Co for its antibody drugs combination used for treatment of mild to moderate Coronavirus in the country.
According to a statement issued by the US firm, the DCGI has granted permission for restricted emergency use of its monoclonal antibody drugs - Bamlanivimab 700 mg and Eesevimab 1400 mg, used together for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate COVID-19.
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Monoclonal antibodies mimic natural antibodies that the body generates to fight infection.
"Lilly is engaging in active dialogue with the Indian government and regulatory authorities to donate bamlanivimab and etesevimab in order to speed up access and provide treatment options for patients with COVID-19," the company said.
While making the announcement, the US firm also said that it is in talks with the Indian government and regulatory authorities to donate the drugs to help speed up access and provide more treatment options.
Before India, US and some European Union countries have approved Emergency Use Authorisation of Bamlanivimab and etesevimab combination for the treatment of the contagious virus.
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"We are pleased that we have another innovative treatment option to offer India's healthcare providers who continue to be at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19," Eli Lilly and Company India MD Luca Visini said.
In May, India had given permission to Eli Lilly for the emergency use of baricitinib in combination with remdesivir for the treatment of suspected or laboratory confirmed COVID-19.