Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has requested the Government to consider procurement of two medicines used to treat mild to moderate patients who are at risk of progressing to severe COVID.
“US FDA has authorized the emergency use of Monoclonal anti-bodies casirivimab and imdevimab (REGEN-COV) for mild to moderate patients who are at risk of progressing to severe COVID. My friends in the USA tell me that this is considered a wonder medicine that has saved the lives of many by preventing the worsening of the illness.” Opposition Leader tweeted.
MP Premadasa requested the Government to obtain the opinion of relevant experts and purchase the life saving drug.
“As such it would be prudent for the Sri Lankan government to obtain the opinion of relevant experts and go ahead with the procurement of this life saving drug to save the lives of Sri Lankans.” he said.
On August 17th Opposition Leader had called on the Government to import the medicine Tocilizumab to treat Covid patients in Sri Lanka as there was a severe shortage.
Tocilizumab can play a key role in decreasing mortality and reducing need for invasive mechanical ventilation among some severely ill patients, when delivered alongside oxygen and corticosteroids.
State Minister Prof. Channa Jayasumana stated earlier this week that a consignment of the medicine Tocilizumab, which is currently in short supply will arrive in the country before end of this month. (NewsWire)