Researchers from Hanover report successes with corona drug
Researchers from Hanover say they have found a drug that is supposed to help against coronaviruses in the early stages of infection. The Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung (HAZ) reports on corresponding research by the Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicological and Experimental Medicine (Item).
Accordingly, the active ingredient nafamostat is an effective agent in a corona infection. As an inhalation spray, it helps antiviral, especially in the early stages. So far, nafamostat has been used for inflammation of the pancreas.
The HAZ quoted the researchers as saying that the drug has the potential to be used in humans. The experts would expect a first application on humans as part of a clinical studio in 2022.
Researcher: Drugs are not an alternative to vaccination
“Vaccination is essential for fighting pandemics,” said Professor Armin Braun, Head of Preclinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at Fraunhofer Item, of the HAZ. However, this step is not an option for all citizens for different reasons. However, according to HAZ, Braun and his colleague Sebastian Konzok do not expect such drugs to be an alternative to vaccination. Preventing the disease, for example with a vaccination, is better than curing a current disease.
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There have recently been developments in drugs against the coronavirus. Great Britain approved an antiviral pill made by Merck. The active ingredient molnupiravir is said to help against severe courses. The US pharmaceutical company Pfizer has announced that it will apply for approval in the US for a pill against the coronavirus called Paxlovid. According to the manufacturer, it should reduce hospital admissions and measures with the corona virus by 89 percent.
The seven-day incidence had increased in Germany in the past few days. It was 183.7 on Saturday, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). The previous day the value was 169.95.
The increasing number of new infections led to a discussion about compulsory vaccination. For example, the Marburger Bund is calling for certain occupational groups to be vaccinated against Covid-19.