The first definitive cure for dengue is developed by Pharmalytics Corporation, led by Dr. Rita Grace Y. Alvero. The project is set to complete by 2022.
The study was funded by the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD).
The development of the drug began its preformulation stage in 2012. Subsequent formulation and toxicity studies were conducted in 2016. The first-in-human study or phase 1 trial was concluded in 2019 after the safety of the drug was established. Currently, the study is on its Phase 2/3 clinical trial after a delay in the implementation was met during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Based on the Dengue Situation Reports from the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region (WHO WPR), a total of 64,797 dengue cases and 274 deaths were recorded from 01 January to 25 June 2022 which is 90% higher compared to the 34,074 cases and 112 deaths reported in the same period in 2021.
Current practice guidelines recommend symptom monitoring and adequate hydration to patients classified with dengue without warning signs. Approximately 1 in 20 patients with dengue progress to severe, and without adequate management, the mortality rate may be as high as 20%.
If proven effective, the drug will be beneficial to prevent the progression of the disease to severe dengue.
Read more about the interview with Dr. Rita Grace Y. Alvero here.