How much should remdesivir really cost? DOH warns public vs. overpricing

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday warned the public against overpricing remdesivir, an investigational drug used on COVID-19 patients.

The agency stressed that a 100-milligram vial of remdesivir must only cost P1,500 to P8,200.

Citing a joint administrative order with other government agencies, the DOH warned that those “found to have committed any illegal act of price manipulation… shall be penalized administratively and criminally.”

Complaints on overpriced remdesivir may be reported to pddrugpricemonitoring@gmail.com.

The DOH also stressed that the use of the investigational drug requires a compassionate use permit from the Food and Drug Administration.

The country’s supply of remdesivir and tocilizumab, another drug also used on COVID-19 cases, was replenished last month after a shortfall.

The Philippines continues to battle a surge in COVID-19 infections that health authorities have attributed to new coronavirus variants, increased mobility, and relaxed adherence to health protocols.

The country has recorded 971,049 COVID-19 cases with 846,691 recoveries and 16,370 deaths as of Thursday afternoon. -MDM, GMA News