THE much anticipated development of a local vaccine against the highly-infectious virus from China may not happen so soon, maybe next year, says the Department of Science and Technology.
At the Laging Handa press briefing, DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development executive director Jaime Montoya said that the clinical trials for herbal medicines Lagundi and Tawa-Tawa might take another couple of months to be completed.
Montoya explained that the both herbal by-products have to undergo two study phases — the first to determine the appropriate dose and the second to check for effectiveness.
“Tapos na ang Lagundi sa Phase 1 and it’s already in Phase 2, which will last for 2 to 3 months,” he said.
Another factor which may cause its delay, Montoya added, is the ability of its proponents to recruit individuals who are willing to participate in the process which he deemed as crucial.
Lagundi, which is known to be effective in treating cough, is now being tested as a possible supplement treatment for COVID-19. The trials started in October.
Meanwhile, Montoya said clinical trials for Tawa-Tawa, which has been used by dengue patients, has also started Phase 1. It is also being studied as a supplemental treatment for COVID-19 patients.
The government official said the Phase 2 of Tawa-Tawa may start by next week or 2 weeks from now depending on how fast they can get volunteers.