The company is using VIRAZOLE in combination with standard of care therapy to treat hospitalised adult patients with respiratory distress due to coronavirus. Credit: Tumisu from Pixabay.

Bausch Health Companies has initiated a clinical trial programme in Canada to evaluate the investigational use of VIRAZOLE (Ribavirin for Inhalation Solution, USP).

The company is using VIRAZOLE in combination with standard of care therapy to treat hospitalised adult patients identified with respiratory distress due to coronavirus (Covid-19).

As the ingredient ribavirin is a synthetic nucleoside that works to stop viral replication, VIRAZOLE is expected to be effective in reducing the severity of coronavirus infection.

VIRAZOLE is currently available for use in the US and Canada for the treatment of hospitalised infants and young children identified with severe lower respiratory tract infections due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Bausch Health chairman and CEO Joseph C. Papa said: “VIRAZOLE has demonstrated antiviral activity in treating severe pediatric respiratory infections, and we believe it may be a valuable agent in reducing respiratory distress in adults suffering from Covid-19.

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“We are actively pursuing approval of our trial protocol around the world to test the efficacy and safety of VIRAZOLE in this patient population.

“Bausch Health will remain focused, for as long as necessary, on doing our part to help end this unprecedented global health pandemic, including donating our health care products, conducting research to find new treatment options and supporting patients, health care providers and our employees.”

The initial clinical study, which is approved by Health Canada, is expected to start in the near term.

Bausch Health is also in talks with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and health authorities in multiple countries regarding additional studies to analyse the efficacy of VIRAZOLE as a treatment for coronavirus infection.

The Bausch Foundation is also interacting with Italian health authorities to make VIRAZOLE available for inhalation in the country’s hospitals.