UK becomes 1st country to approve COVID-19 antiviral pill by Merck

The UK on Thursday became the first country in the world to approve COVID-19 antiviral pill jointly developed by Merck and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) recommended that the drug, molnupiravir, be used as soon as possible following a positive COVID-19 test and within five days of the onset of symptoms.