Merck antiviral is connected to changes that can extend between individuals

September 26, 2023: On Monday, a recent study has raised concerns that Merck antiviral is connected to changes that can extend between individuals , some of which may spread to others. Molnupiravir works by introducing mutations into the genetic information of the Covid virus, weakening or destroying it in the process. However, the study, published in the scientific journal Nature, found instances where the virus survived the treatment, leading to mutated versions that could be transmitted to other patients.

This research, conducted in the U.S. and U.K., analyzed a vast dataset of 15 million Covid genomes to track mutations, noting an increase in mutations after molnupiravir’s introduction in many countries in 2022. It’s important to note that there’s no evidence that molnupiravir, sold under the brand name Lagevrio, has generated more transmissible or severe variants of COVID-19.

These findings have significance for regulators assessing the risks and benefits of molnupiravir. While the

company disputed an earlier study suggesting the drug’s role in virus mutations, this new research raises further questions about its effects.

It’s worth mentioning that molnupiravir has been used amid a backdrop of evolving Covid strains

in the U.S., and its sales have decreased significantly this year, reflecting a shift in strategies to combat the virus. The drug has long been controversial due to its potential to induce genetic mutations in the virus.