Novartis has launched a new initiative to help provide access to affordable medicines to treat the major symptoms of COVID-19, a critical need in the absence of a vaccine or curative treatment. Inflammation and respiratory problems linked to COVID-19 can cause severe medical complications and can lead to death in some people.

A portfolio of 15 generic and over-the-counter medicines from Sandoz division will be sold at zero-profit to governments in up to 79 eligible countries during the pandemic and until a vaccine or curative treatment is available.

The portfolio includes medicines for gastro-intestinal illness, acute respiratory symptoms, pneumonia as well as septic shock. The medicines were chosen based on clinical relevance and availability to ensure demand can be met globally.

The following medicines are included in the Novartis COVID-19 Response Portfolio: Amoxicillin, Ceftriaxone, Clarithromycin, Colchicine, Dexamethasone, Dobutamine, Fluconazole, Heparin, Levofloxacin, Loperamide, Pantoprazole, Prednisone, Prednisolone, Salbutamol, Vancomycin.