FDA health panel endorses Merck COVID-19 pill

U.S. health advisers have endorsed an antiviral drug from Merck to treat COVID-19.  It sets the stage for an expected authorization of the first pill that Americans could take at home for the coronavirus.

The Food and Drug Administration panel voted that the drug’s benefits in curbing hospitalizations and deaths outweigh its risks.  The pill was found to be 30% effective – not as high as expected – but this would be the first at home pill with a prescription.

Another drug make is asking federal regulators to approve its antiviral pill. Pfizer says early trial results suggest it reduces the risk of hospitalization or death by 89%.

Supporters call these pills the second line of defense – behind vaccination.

Health officials say 59.1% of the eligible population of Grand Forks County (5+) is fully vaccinated.

AP/KNOX