RELATED: Merck seeks FDA authorization of antiviral COVID-19 pillThe FDA scientists said their review identified several potential risks, including possible toxicity and birth defects.
Regulators also noted Merck collected far less safety data overall on its drug than was gathered for other COVID-19 therapies.All COVID-19 drugs currently authorized by the FDA require an injection or IV, which limits their use.
If authorized, Merck’s drug would be the first that patients could take at home to ease symptoms and speed recovery. It is already authorized for emergency use in the U.K.Medicine pill is seen with Merck logo displayed on a screen in the background in this illustration photo taken in Poland on Nov.