This isn’t news we were hoping for.
Just days ago, STAT News said Gilead (GILD) experimental drug remdesivir saw “rapid recoveries in fever and respiratory symptoms with nearly all patients discharged in less than a week.”
Of course, GILD soared on the news.
However, according to Financial Times, the drug may have flopped in its first clinical trial.
“A potential antiviral drug for the coronavirus has flopped in its first randomised clinical trial, disappointing scientists and investors who had high hopes for remdesivir, according to draft documents published accidentally by the World Health Organization and seen by the Financial Times,” as reported.
In fact, it’s being reported that a trial did not improve patient conditions or reduce pathogens in the bloodstream. The drug also showed “significant” side effects in some.
At the same time, the World Health Organization said the document releasing such information was published early in error. Gilead also said the post included “inappropriate characterisations of the study” and that, “Importantly, because this study was terminated early due to low enrolment, it was underpowered to enable statistically meaningful conclusions.”
However, despite this news, Gilead has said the drug may still benefit patients.
Gilead added, “The study results are inconclusive, though trends in the data suggest a potential benefit for remdesivir, particularly among patients treated early in disease.”
The story is just now developing. We’ll keep you up to date on any changes.
