Scientists are seeking Scots who have recently tested positive for coronavirus to participate in a new Covid treatment trial.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is working alongside University of Glasgow experts to research the impact that an antiviral tablet can have on symptoms.
The drug, which is called Favipiravir, is targeted at those in the early stages of the virus and must be taken within four days of a positive Covid test result.
The treatment is intended for those who have milder symptoms of the virus rather than those who are in need of hospital treatment.
Researchers will assess the effectiveness of the drug and the potential that it has in reducing the time it takes to recover from coronavirus.
Three hospitals in the area are taking part, including the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
Half of the patients participating in the trial will receive the drug twice a day for 10 days alongside standard treatment, with the other half receiving standard treatment for comparison.
Prof Rob Jones, Director of the CRUK Clinical Trials Unit, Glasgow, and Chief Investigator of the study commented: “If you have recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 and would like to contribute to ground breaking research, please get in touch. We are looking for people who have just recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 – within four days of a positive COVID-19 test result.
“We are looking to see whether this antiviral treatment will help kill off the virus and prevent more serious complications.”
Dr Janet Scott (MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research) said: “This drug is active against many viruses, it is used already for influenza in Japan. We are able to offer the trial not just to patients in hospital but also for home use. Our hope is that it will stop mild symptoms developing into serious ones.”
More details of the trial can be found here.
