New Delhi, Dec 28 (PTI) Natco Pharma on Tuesday said it plans to launch its version of antiviral drug Molnupiravir capsules for the treatment of COVID-19 this week.

The company has received approval for Molnupiravir capsules (200 mg), which would be sold under brand name Molnunat in the country, the drug firm said in a statement.

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Molnupiravir is the first COVID-19 drug authorised by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for the treatment of COVID-19 infection in adults who have high risk of progression of the disease including hospitalisation or death.

"Molnunat will be marketed by Natco and will be priced affordably," Natco Pharma said.

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Phase 3 trials of Molnupiravir has shown significant reduction in hospitalisation of COVID-19 patients, it added.

Molnunat is expected to be launched this week by the company in the domestic market, it added. HRS hrs

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