DOST to begin clinical trials on virgin coconut oil’s efficacy vs COVID-19

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is set to hold clinical trials to test the efficacy of virgin coconut oil to improve the condition of confirmed and probable COVID-19 patients.

This was disclosed by President Rodrigo Duterte in his fifth weekly report to Congress as mandated by the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

Duterte’s report however did not state a specific date for the start of the clinical trials.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said last week that the DOST was studying the use of virgin coconut oil as a supplement to the diets of people who have tested positive for the deadly virus.

The President also said the DOST approved and allocated funds for the project that would allow University of the Philippines Manila and 22 hospitals to participate in a “multicenter trial” that will provide data on the efficacy of candidate anti-viral drugs to Filipinos infected with COVID-19.

Last Saturday, the Department of Health reported that Philippines and Japan have started initial arrangements for the potential testing of Japanese flu drug Avigan to treat COVID-19 patients.

Duterte earlier said the Philippines is ready to participate in clinical trials and medical studies of potential vaccines and medicines such as Avigan.

He has also offered P50 million as a reward to any Filipino who can develop a vaccine against COVID-19. —LDF, GMA News