FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical has announced the initiation of a new phase III clinical trial in Japan concerning its anti-influenza drug Avigan^® Tablet (favipiravir), targeting patients infected with novel coronavirus infections (COVID-19).

The trial is a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to investigate the drug’s efficacy and safety in patients with early-onset COVID-19 with risk factors for progression to severe symptoms.

The new phase III clinical trial in Japan is targeting patients with early-onset COVID-19 having risk factors for progression to severe symptoms.

The trial design was based on the findings from the phase III clinical trial implemented last year, that Avigan expedited the improvement of symptoms in early-onset patients.

The primary endpoint would be the ratio of patients whose condition has become severe by comparing Avigan and placebo groups. The subjects of this trial are COVID-19 patients aged 50 and older, and those who are at risk of developing serious conditions, such as those with underlying diseases and obesity. The enrollment should be made within 72 hours of onset.

The Fujifilm Group will work to deliver the treatment drug to COVID-19 patients as soon as possible, and contribute to ending the spread of COVID-19.