The Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA) has authorised two local pharmaceutical companies for marketing Molnupiravir, the first oral Covid-19 antiviral drug. Major General Md Mahbubur Rahman, Director General of the DGDA, came up with the information at a press briefing on Tuesday. “DGDA has approved Molnupiravir for emergency use but it’s not an alternative to vaccine. People must take Covid jabs. This oral medicine has to be taken as per the advice of physicians,” he said. Also read: Merck agrees to let other drug makers make its COVID pill “So far, 10 pharmaceutical companies have sought permission for marketing and we have authorised Beximco Pharmaceuticals and Eskayef Pharmaceuticals for marketing. The eight other companies awaiting approval are Square, General, Beacon, Reneta, Insepta, Acme, Health Care and Popular pharmaceuticals,” he added.