• We asked these companies to quote their prices and establish their link with the manufacturer through documentary proof
• Several companies already applied for it  

By Kelum Bandara  

The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) called for expressions of interest from the private sector to import Molnupiravir, the first oral anti-viral pill to treat patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, a minister said.  
Earlier, the medical experts committee that takes decisions on Covid-19 treatment endorsed the use of this anti-viral pill developed by the drug companies Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics. The pill reduces the risk of hospitalisation and death by 50 percent, according to studies.   

State Minister of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals Prof. Channa Jayasumana told Daily Mirror a few private companies had already expressed their willingness to import it for prescription in the treatment of Covid-19 patients.  

“We asked these companies to quote their prices. Also, they have to establish their link with the manufacturer through documentary proof. Once that is done, we will refer the matter to the Medicines Evaluation Committee for clearance. Afterwards, we can give permission for imports,” he said. 

• It reduces deaths, hospitalisation by 50 percent