EMA Might Not Decide On Merck's COVID-91 Oral Antiviral Before Christmas: Reuters

The EU drug regulator might not decide whether to approve Merck & Co Inc's MRK molnupiravir, COVID-19 antiviral until after Christmas, a source with knowledge of the matter said, Reuters said.

• But according to the source, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) may rule before Christmas whether to give Gilead Sciences Inc's GILD intravenous antiviral drug Remdesivir full marketing approval.
• Related Link: EU Backs Merck's COVID-19 Pill For Adults At Risk Of Severe Illness.
• If the Merck ruling on molnupiravir comes in the new year, that would be later than expected. 
• In November, the agency said it expected to complete its review by the year-end.
• Also See: AdComm Narrowly Backs Merck's COVID-19 Pill, Despite Efficacy Questions.
• Price Action: MRK shares are up 0.92% at $76.61, GILD stock is down 0.03% at $72.29 during the market session on the last check Friday.