US pharmaceutical major Advanced Penetration Technology has successfully tested its existing ointment called T3X to be highly effective in killing the coronavirus. The non-prescription FDA approved drug can thus form the first line of defense against the disease.
Scientists working with the firm have claimed that the over-the-counter ointment has been proven to prevent, treat and kill viral infections including coronavirus. "As per the lab report states, no infectious virus was detected after 30 seconds of T3X treatment," the pharma major said in a statement.
"T3X is an FDA registered, over-the-counter formulation, which means that no prescription is needed. It is easy to use and can be self-administered without the assistance of medical personnel or technicians," the company said.
"We believe this will be a breakthrough that will reduce the likelihood of becoming infected with coronavirus through the nose, which is where most cases are contracted," said Dr Brian Huber, CEO and founder of Advanced Penetration Technology.
Although T3X was developed eight years ago for resistant-bacterial infections, its formulation is known to provide powerful anti-fungal and antiviral therapies too. Virology Research Services Ltd, a London-based research laboratory, thus wanted to evaluate the anti-viral impact of APT T3X against coronavirus.
The research, performed over a period of two months May and June, found that the APT T3X is able to effectively neutralise the viral infectivity within seconds, thus making it ¡°a highly effective formulation against coronavirus.¡±
"Under the conditions tested, APT T3X displays a 99.9% virucidal activity against human coronavirus NL63," the company said.
It thus means that the T3X is effective in mitigating coronavirus from entering the body through the nasal passages. Since nasal passages are the most common routes of the virus reaching the host body and infecting it, T3X significantly reduces the likelihood of anyone being infected with the virus.
The drug is also known to have no side effects. Though patients diagnosed with Lyme disease should be cautious of a potential 'Herx' reaction shortly after use, the company warned.
Disclaimer: While there have been several different types of treatments being given to COVID-19 patients across the world, there isn¡¯t any one drug that has worked as a sure-shot treatment yet. Don¡¯t self medicate and always consult your doctor or medical health professional for any symptoms.
(With inputs from PTI)