Key Takeaways:
- Pharmaceutical companies are conducting clinical trials and other research to understand the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how to eliminate the virus.
- Although no COVID-19 vaccine is currently available, early research into coronavirus therapies looks promising.
- Until a cure for COVID-19 becomes generally available, people must remain persistent in their efforts to social distance, wear a face mask, and follow other safety mandates to avoid contracting or spreading the coronavirus.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) research is ongoing. Researchers are investigating drugs and other treatments that can be used to alleviate COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, clinical trials are underway that could lead to treatments that help people mitigate COVID-19 symptoms now and in the future.
In this episode of the Smile podcast, globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh interviews former Allergan CEO Brent Saunders about COVID-19’s impact on the pharmaceutical industry. During the interview, Saunders offers expert insights into clinical trials involving potential COVID-19 treatments and explains when a coronavirus cure could become available.
Is a COVID-19 Cure on the Horizon? What You Need to Know
Pharmaceutical companies are working tirelessly to identify a COVID-19 cure. Although these companies are making progress, no cure has become generally available thus far to help patients treat COVID-19 symptoms.
Along with determining the best way to treat COVID-19, pharmaceutical companies want to ensure that any coronavirus treatment is easily accessible and affordable. That way, people can instantly use the treatment to minimize the risk of a COVID-19 infection and its associated symptoms.
In the near future, a COVID-19 vaccine could be available that helps prevent a COVID-19 infection. Until that time, people must keep an eye out for COVID-19 symptoms in themselves and others. With a proactive approach, people can minimize the risk of contracting COVID-19 or spreading the coronavirus to others.
What Factors Will Impact How Soon a COVID-19 Vaccine Becomes Available?
Clinical trials are crucial, and their effectiveness will impact how quickly a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available. Pharmaceutical companies are conducting tests and evaluating their results to ensure a COVID-19 vaccine is both safe and reliable. Once clinical trials verify the safety and efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine, the treatment will require various approvals.
During clinical trials of potential COVID-19 treatments, pharmaceutical companies must carefully track and evaluate their test results. These companies can then share their findings with regulatory agencies, and ultimately, gain the necessary approvals to share their treatments with the general public.
There is no time frame for a COVID-19 vaccine, and it remains exceedingly important for people to continue to do their part to limit the spread of the coronavirus. At this time, people should continue to wear a face mask and practice social distancing. They should also seek medical help and get tested if they experience a fever, shortness of breath, or any other symptoms of a COVID-19 infection. If people are infected by COVID-19, they should quarantine until they fully recover from their symptoms.
How Will a COVID-19 Vaccine Be Administered Once It Becomes Generally Available?
How a COVID-19 vaccine will be administered has yet to be determined, due to the fact that a viable coronavirus treatment is still in development. A vaccine may require people to receive an injection, which will allow them to stop COVID-19 symptoms before they happen. Meanwhile, who will have immediate access to a COVID-19 vaccine remains unknown. If people take steps to protect themselves and others against COVID-19, however, they can minimize the risks associated with a coronavirus infection.
Learn More About Coronavirus and Its Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
The pandemic has caused a wide range of problems for people around the world, but a COVID-19 vaccine is forthcoming. In episode 11 of the Smile podcast, Saunders provides details about COVID-19’s impact on pharmaceutical companies and explains when a vaccine may become available and how it will affect the general public. To learn more, please download our podcast today.