#Chloroquine Drug Market

[sachinreportprime]

Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market: Emerging Treatments and Global Impact

Artemisinin Based Combination Therapy Market is a class of antimalarial drugs that combine artemisinin derivatives with partner drugs, targeting different stages of the malaria parasite's lifecycle. The use of ACT has become a critical tool in treating uncomplicated malaria and has significantly reduced the burden of the disease in several endemic regions. The global ACT market focuses on the production, distribution, and administration of these therapies across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other regions battling high malaria prevalence.

Key ACTs used worldwide include:

Artemether-Lumefantrine (AL) – One of the most widely used combinations, this treatment is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for treating uncomplicated malaria.

Artesunate-Amodiaquine (ASAQ) – Another prominent ACT used in malaria-endemic countries.

Artesunate-Mefloquine (ASMQ) – Particularly used in regions with resistance to other treatments.

Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine (DHA-PPQ) – A combination used extensively in parts of Southeast Asia, including areas affected by multi-drug-resistant malaria.

Market Valuation and Growth Drivers Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market

The global Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market is valued at approximately USD 650 million in 2023, and it is projected to reach around USD 950 million by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.5% over the forecast period. Several key factors are driving this growth:

Rising Global Malaria Cases: Despite significant progress, malaria remains a major public health issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Southeast Asia. The demand for ACT continues to rise as these regions require efficient and fast-acting treatments to manage outbreaks and control transmission.

Government and Global Health Initiatives: Governments and international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and Global Fund, have implemented programs to make ACTs widely accessible. Subsidies and funding efforts are improving the distribution of ACTs in malaria-endemic countries, boosting market growth.

Drug Resistance and Evolving Malaria Parasites: As resistance to older malaria treatments, such as chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, increases, ACT has become the primary first-line treatment. The ongoing threat of antimalarial resistance further supports the need for advanced therapies like ACT.

Technological Advancements in Drug Production: Innovations in biotechnology and pharmaceutical production have improved the efficiency of artemisinin extraction and the formulation of combination therapies. This has made ACT more affordable and scalable for mass distribution.

Focus on Malaria Elimination Campaigns: With global health bodies working towards the goal of eliminating malaria by 2030, the market for effective treatments like ACT is expected to grow. Programs targeting the eradication of malaria, particularly in high-burden countries, will drive demand for ACT.

Applications of ACT in Malaria Treatment

Artemisinin Combination Therapy is primarily used in the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria, which is the most dangerous form of the disease. Its application is vital in high-burden regions, especially in Africa, which accounts for more than 90% of global malaria cases.

Treatment of Uncomplicated Malaria: ACT is the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria caused by P. falciparum. The fast-acting nature of artemisinin derivatives helps reduce parasite load quickly, while the partner drug prevents a resurgence of the infection by addressing the parasite's residual forms.

Prevention of Malaria Transmission: Besides curing patients, ACTs help reduce malaria transmission within communities. By eliminating the parasites from the bloodstream, ACT limits the possibility of transmission to mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors of the disease.

Response to Drug-Resistant Strains: In areas where resistance to older antimalarial drugs is prevalent, ACTs remain one of the most reliable treatments. The dual-action mechanism of ACT helps counter the development of drug-resistant malaria strains.

Use in Special Populations: ACTs are increasingly being used in vulnerable populations, such as children and pregnant women. While some caution is required in administering these drugs during the first trimester of pregnancy, they are generally safe and effective for treating malaria in later stages.

Challenges Facing the Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market

While ACT is highly effective in combating malaria, the market faces several challenges that may affect its growth and long-term sustainability:

1. Rising Costs of Artemisinin

Artemisinin is derived from the Artemisia annua plant, and fluctuations in the production of this plant can lead to shortages and rising costs. As the demand for artemisinin-based therapies increases, the cost of sourcing and producing this compound also rises, which could affect the affordability and accessibility of ACTs in low-income regions.

2. Drug Resistance Threats

One of the most pressing challenges for the ACT market is the growing threat of drug resistance. Reports of artemisinin-resistant malaria in parts of Southeast Asia have raised concerns about the longevity of ACT as the go-to treatment for malaria. While the combination nature of ACT helps mitigate resistance, new strategies and R&D efforts are needed to combat evolving malaria strains.

3. Supply Chain Issues

Distributing ACT to remote and underserved regions remains a logistical challenge. Poor infrastructure, transportation difficulties, and limited healthcare facilities in many malaria-endemic areas hinder the efficient distribution and delivery of ACTs to those who need it most.

4. Lack of Awareness and Access

Despite global efforts, many rural and marginalized communities remain unaware of ACTs or have limited access to them due to economic or geographic barriers. The lack of education on malaria treatment options, coupled with insufficient healthcare infrastructure, continues to restrict the reach of ACT in some high-burden areas.

5. Funding Gaps

While international organizations such as the Global Fund have been instrumental in supporting malaria treatment programs, funding gaps remain a challenge. Many malaria-endemic countries rely heavily on external funding to support their public health programs, and any decrease in funding could negatively impact the availability of ACTs.

Leading Players in the Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market

Several pharmaceutical companies and organizations are actively involved in the production and distribution of Artemisinin Combination Therapies:

Novartis: One of the largest providers of ACT through its Coartem product, a combination of artemether and lumefantrine. Novartis is a key player in the global fight against malaria, working closely with public health organizations to ensure widespread access to ACT.

Sanofi: A leading player in the ACT market with its Artesunate-Amodiaquine (ASAQ) combination therapy, Sanofi plays an important role in delivering affordable ACT solutions to malaria-endemic regions.

Cipla: This Indian pharmaceutical giant is actively engaged in the production of generic ACTs and works towards making these treatments more affordable for developing countries.

Guilin Pharmaceutical: A Chinese pharmaceutical company specializing in artesunate production, a key ingredient in many ACT combinations. Guilin has a significant presence in the African ACT market.

Mylan: Mylan’s generic Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine (DHA-PPQ) product offers an alternative ACT for regions affected by multidrug-resistant malaria.

Research and Development in the ACT Market

Ongoing research and development (R&D) in the ACT market focuses on enhancing the efficacy of existing therapies, developing new combinations, and addressing drug resistance:

Next-Generation ACT Combinations: Researchers are exploring new drug combinations to combat artemisinin resistance. These next-generation ACTs may include additional partner drugs that target different stages of the malaria parasite’s lifecycle.

Synthetic Artemisinin Production: To combat the supply challenges associated with natural artemisinin, significant R&D is being invested in developing synthetic artemisinin. This lab-grown alternative could help stabilize production and lower costs, making ACT more accessible to low-income regions.

Single-Dose Treatments: R&D efforts are also focused on developing single-dose ACT regimens, which could simplify treatment and improve compliance, especially in rural and underserved communities where multiple doses may be difficult to administer.

Monitoring Resistance: Ongoing research is being conducted to monitor and address artemisinin resistance, particularly in Southeast Asia. By understanding the genetic mutations that lead to resistance, scientists can develop strategies to extend the efficacy of ACTs.

Conclusion: The Future of the Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market

In the next five years, the Artemisinin Combination Therapy Market is expected to grow steadily as global efforts to combat malaria intensify. While challenges such as drug resistance, rising costs, and supply chain limitations remain, ongoing research and advancements in synthetic artemisinin production and next-generation treatments offer hope for overcoming these barriers. Companies like Novartis, Sanofi, and Cipla will continue to lead the market, but emerging generic manufacturers and advancements in biotechnology could further drive accessibility.

Investors and global health professionals are optimistic about the future of ACT, recognizing its critical role in malaria treatment and control. With continued focus on R&D, public health funding, and policy efforts, the ACT market will remain at the forefront of global malaria treatment strategies, saving millions of lives in the process.

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The Future of Anti-Malarial Drugs: Emerging Solutions and Evolving Challenges

Market Overview

The anti-malarial drugs market plays a pivotal role in combating malaria, a life-threatening disease transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite significant advancements in treatment and prevention, malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The global anti-malarial drugs market was valued at approximately USD 5.3 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 7% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of malaria, rising awareness about the disease, and advancements in drug development.

Types of Anti-Malarial Drugs

Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapies (ACTs): ACTs are the frontline treatment for uncomplicated malaria. They combine artemisinin derivatives with other anti-malarial drugs to enhance efficacy and prevent the development of drug resistance. Common ACTs include artemether-lumefantrine (Coartem), artesunate-amodiaquine, and artesunate-mefloquine.

Chloroquine: Chloroquine was once the primary treatment for malaria, especially in areas where the disease is caused by Plasmodium falciparum. However, the rise of drug-resistant strains has limited its effectiveness, and it is now primarily used for treating malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax.

Mefloquine: Mefloquine is used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria. It is particularly effective in areas where resistance to other anti-malarial drugs is prevalent. Mefloquine is often used in combination with other drugs to enhance treatment outcomes.

Primaquine: Primaquine is used to treat the liver stages of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale infections. It is critical for the prevention of relapse and is used in combination with other drugs to ensure complete eradication of the parasite.

Quinine: Quinine is used for the treatment of severe malaria and is often administered intravenously in hospital settings. It is typically used when ACTs are not available or when there is resistance to first-line treatments.

Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone): Atovaquone-proguanil is used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria. It is known for its effectiveness in treating both uncomplicated and severe malaria and is often used as a prophylactic treatment for travelers to endemic regions.

Market Drivers

Rising Malaria Incidence: Despite global efforts to reduce malaria cases, the incidence of malaria remains high, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The persistence of the disease in endemic regions drives the demand for effective anti-malarial drugs.

Drug Resistance: The emergence of drug-resistant strains of malaria parasites, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, has intensified the need for new and effective anti-malarial treatments. Research and development in this area are crucial to overcoming resistance and improving treatment outcomes.

Challenges

Drug Resistance: Drug resistance remains a significant challenge in the anti-malarial drugs market. The rise of resistance to artemisinin and other anti-malarial drugs necessitates continuous research and the development of new treatments.

Limited Access to Medicines: Access to anti-malarial drugs is limited in many endemic regions due to factors such as high costs, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and logistical challenges. Improving access to affordable and effective treatments is crucial for controlling malaria.

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Regional Insights

Sub-Saharan Africa: Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most affected region by malaria, accounting for the majority of global cases and deaths. The market for anti-malarial drugs in this region is driven by the high prevalence of malaria and ongoing efforts to control the disease through drug distribution programs and public health initiatives.

Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region, including countries such as India, Myanmar, and Thailand, experiences significant malaria burden. Drug resistance and the need for effective treatments drive the demand for anti-malarial drugs in this region.

Latin America and the Caribbean: While malaria prevalence in Latin America is lower compared to sub-Saharan Africa, certain areas experience ongoing malaria transmission. Efforts to control the disease and prevent outbreaks contribute to the demand for anti-malarial drugs.

North America and Europe: Malaria is relatively rare in North America and Europe; however, these regions are involved in global health initiatives and research for new anti-malarial treatments. The market in these regions is influenced by their role in funding and supporting malaria control programs.

Competitive Landscape

The anti-malarial drugs market is highly competitive, with several key players dominating the industry. Major companies involved in the development and production of anti-malarial drugs include:

Novartis AG:

GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK):

Sanofi S.A.:

Roche Holding AG:

Report Overview : https://www.infiniumglobalresearch.com/market-reports/global-anti-malarial-drugs-market

Conclusion

The anti-malarial drugs market is vital to the global effort to combat malaria, a persistent and serious health challenge. The market's growth is driven by the increasing incidence of malaria, drug resistance, and ongoing research and development efforts. Despite the challenges, advancements in drug development and global health initiatives are paving the way for more effective treatments and improved outcomes. As the world continues to fight malaria, the anti-malarial drugs market will play a crucial role in reducing the disease's impact and advancing global health.

[lalsingh228-blog]

Antiprotozoal drugs Market Projected to Show Strong Growth

Advance Market Analytics added research publication document on Worldwide Antiprotozoal drugs Market breaking major business segments and highlighting wider level geographies to get deep dive analysis on market data. The study is a perfect balance bridging both qualitative and quantitative information of Worldwide Antiprotozoal drugs market. The study provides valuable market size data for historical (Volume** & Value) from 2018 to 2022 which is estimated and forecasted till 2028*. Some are the key & emerging players that are part of coverage and have being profiled are Enzon Pharmaceuticals (United States), Sanofi (France), Pfizer, Inc. (United States), Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India), GlaxoSmithKline plc (United Kingdom), Novartis AG (Switzerland), Ipca Laboratories Ltd. (India), Merck KGaA (Germany), F. Hoffmann La-Roche Ltd. (Switzerland). Get free access to Sample Report in PDF Version along with Graphs and Figures @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/165708-global-antiprotozoal-drugs-market Keep yourself up-to-date with latest market trends and changing dynamics due to COVID Impact and Economic Slowdown globally. Maintain a competitive edge by sizing up with available business opportunity in Antiprotozoal drugs Market various segments and emerging territory.

Market Drivers

Increasing prevalence of protozoan infections

Favourable government support to treat malaria

Availability of generic version at a cheaper price

Opportunities:

Ongoing research and development for Drug Development to Protozoan Diseases

Have Any Questions Regarding Global Antiprotozoal drugs Market Report, Ask Our Experts@ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/165708-global-antiprotozoal-drugs-market Analysis by Type (Chloroquine, Pyrimethamine, Mefloquine, Hydroxychloroquine, Metronidazole, Atovaquone, Others), Form (Liquid, Tablet, Injectable form), Distribution (Online Pharmacy, Offline Pharmacy)

Competitive landscape highlighting important parameters that players are gaining along with the Market Development/evolution

• % Market Share, Segment Revenue, Swot Analysis for each profiled company [Enzon Pharmaceuticals (United States), Sanofi (France), Pfizer, Inc. (United States), Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India), GlaxoSmithKline plc (United Kingdom), Novartis AG (Switzerland), Ipca Laboratories Ltd. (India), Merck KGaA (Germany), F. Hoffmann La-Roche Ltd. (Switzerland)]

• Business overview and Product/Service classification

• Product/Service Matrix [Players by Product/Service comparative analysis]

• Recent Developments (Technology advancement, Product Launch or Expansion plan, Manufacturing and R&D etc)

• Consumption, Capacity & Production by Players The regional analysis of Global Antiprotozoal drugs Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America is the leading region across the world. Whereas, owing to rising no. of research activities in countries such as China, India, and Japan, Asia Pacific region is also expected to exhibit higher growth rate the forecast period 2023-2028. Table of Content Chapter One: Industry Overview Chapter Two: Major Segmentation (Classification, Application and etc.) Analysis Chapter Three: Production Market Analysis Chapter Four: Sales Market Analysis Chapter Five: Consumption Market Analysis Chapter Six: Production, Sales and Consumption Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Seven: Major Manufacturers Production and Sales Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Eight: Competition Analysis by Players Chapter Nine: Marketing Channel Analysis Chapter Ten: New Project Investment Feasibility Analysis Chapter Eleven: Manufacturing Cost Analysis Chapter Twelve: Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Read Executive Summary and Detailed Index of full Research Study @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/165708-global-antiprotozoal-drugs-market Highlights of the Report • The future prospects of the global Antiprotozoal drugs market during the forecast period 2023-2028 are given in the report. • The major developmental strategies integrated by the leading players to sustain a competitive market position in the market are included in the report. • The emerging technologies that are driving the growth of the market are highlighted in the report. • The market value of the segments that are leading the market and the sub-segments are mentioned in the report. • The report studies the leading manufacturers and other players entering the global Antiprotozoal drugs market. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Middle East, Africa, Europe or LATAM, Southeast Asia. Contact US : Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) AMA Research & Media LLP Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA – 08837 Phone: +1 201 565 3262, +44 161 818 8166 sales@advancemarketanalytics.com

[pharmaceitucal]

We are identified as one of the major a/b arteether injection manufacturers in India. The Antimalarial injection offered by us is extensively demanded in the market due to the fast & effective relief from the respective elements. The antimalarial Alfa-Beta arteether injection is hygienically packed to Function: prevent contact from external contaminants. Severe malaria including cerebral malaria and as a second-line drug in chloroquine-resistant malaria cases only.

[alicesara611]

Drugs for Malaria Market Innovation, Technologies, Applications, Verticals, Strategies & Strength, Opportunities Forecasts 2030

The global Drugs for Malaria Industry is expected to grow from US$ 877.59 million in 2023 to US$ 1202.21 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.6%. The market is driven by the high prevalence of malaria in developing countries, the rise in awareness programs, and the surge in research for new antimalarial drugs.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world, with an estimated 241 million cases and 627,000 deaths in 2020.

Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year. It is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which can infect and destroy red blood cells. Without treatment, malaria can lead to severe illness and death.

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There are a number of drugs available to treat malaria, but the best choice of drug will depend on a number of factors, including the species of Plasmodium parasite causing the infection, the severity of the infection, and the patient's individual medical history.

The most effective drugs for treating malaria are artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). ACTs combine two or more drugs that work in different ways to kill the malaria parasite. This helps to reduce the risk of the parasite developing resistance to any one drug.

Key Takeaways:

The global drugs for malaria market is expected to reach US$ 877.59 million in 2023 to US$ 1202.21 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2030.

The high prevalence of malaria in developing countries, rising awareness programs, and increasing surge in research for new antimalarial drugs are the key factors driving the growth of the market.

The quinine segment is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period, due to its low cost and wide availability.

The hospital pharmacy segment is expected to be the dominant distribution channel during the forecast period, due to the increasing number of malaria cases and the rising demand for hospital-based care.

Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period, due to the high prevalence of malaria in the region and the increasing government initiatives to control the disease.

Global Drugs for Malaria Industry - Regional Outlook:

The global drugs for malaria market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South and Central America, and the Middle East and Africa.

Asia Pacific is expected to be the largest market during the forecast period, due to the high prevalence of malaria in the region and the increasing government initiatives to control the disease.

Africa is expected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period, due to the rising number of malaria cases and the increasing demand for antimalarial drugs in the region.

Global Drugs for Malaria Industry - Key Players

The key players in the global drugs for malaria industry include:

Actiza Pharmaceutical Private Limited

Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC

Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC

Cipla Inc.

Lupin

Ipca Laboratories Ltd

Mylan N.V.

Novartis AG

GSK

Sanofi

Pfizer Inc.

Global Drugs for Malaria Industry – Segmentation:

The global drugs for malaria industry is segmented by drug class, distribution channel, and region.

By drug class:

Quinine

Chloroquine

Proguanil

Mefloquine

Pyrimethamine

Others

By distribution channel:

Hospital pharmacy

Retail pharmacy

E-commerce

Other distribution channels

By region:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

South and Central America

Middle East and Africa

[juniperpublishersna]

In Silico Molecular Docking Study on Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitor Drugs For SARS-Cov-2 Active Main Protease

Abstract

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic became one of the most important disease problem across the globe for last few years since there is no recommended efficacious drugs in the market. So, there is an urgent need for efficient drugs to treat this disease in the near future. In the present study, molecular docking analyses of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs (Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, Lumiracoxib, Parecoxib, Etoricoxib, and Firocoxib) were performed against the therapeutic target proteins of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease (Mpro) enzyme into the catalytic active site. On the other hand, these drugs were compared with standard drugs such as Favipiravir, Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine to understand the binding sites and find the best poses. The results revealed that all the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs (except Lumiracoxib) showed a better binding affinity against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro enzyme than the standard drugs. Among them, Etoricoxib (-9.40 kcal/mol) have shown the best binding affinity. As a result, this study shows that these selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs might be interesting lead compounds to discover more potent SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors and find to cure severe COVID-19 disease with better drugs.

Keywords: Molecular docking; Coronavirus; COVID-19; Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor; In silico

Introduction

An outbreak was reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Wuhan, China in December 2019. This epidemic was named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on January 30, 2020 [1,2]. In the second week of March 2020, the epidemic was declared global pandemic and within a few months the number of cases increased to 4 million and the death rate increased significantly [3]. The viral agent causing the outbreak belongs to the betacoronavirus family [1,2]. The disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 factor is highly contagious [4]. This illness is basically a type of viral infection that spreads rapidly through respiratory droplet and direct contact. This infection has many symptoms, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath and gastrointestinal diseases [3,5-7]. The COVID-19 epidemic, in addition to threatening human health, has also had negative effects in areas such as the global economy around the world [3].

Cyclooxygenases are enzymes that allow free fatty acids to convert into cyclic endoperoxides. Arachidonic acid and some other fatty acids are exposed to the action of this enzyme and forming various prostaglandins [8,9]. Studies have shown that there are two different isoforms of the enzyme [8]. The first isoform, known as COX-1, is the structural form and is continuously present in the region in which it is produced. The COX-2 isoform is the inducible form [10,11]. This enzyme isoform is induced, especially in cases that cause inflammation. As a result of increased expression of the enzyme COX-2, abundant prostanoids are formed. In the presence of systemic infection, this rate increases even more. It has been found that this isoform increases in various pathologies, such as certain types of cancer and diseases of the central nervous system [8].

Microorganisms stimulate processes associated with the immune system and inflammatory events in the tissues they attack. Elimination the inflammatory condition that occurs is very important for the treatment of diseases caused by infection. In this context, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and their metabolites play a very important role. In studies, lipid derivatives have been found to kill various microorganisms [12]. In general, PUFA kill microbes by their direct effect on microbial cell membranes. Arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids act as endogenous antibacterial and antifungals. These lipid molecules also have antiviral, antiparazit and immunomodulatory effects. Cytokines involved in cell defense induce the release of PUFA from the cell membrane. These lipid molecules provide the formation of lipoxins and resolvins that have antimicrobial effects [13]. A study has shown that COX inhibition protects the virus from spreading from cell to cell by a mechanism that inhibits cytomegalovirus maturation [14]. COX-2 inhibitors such as etoricoxib or celecoxib are drugs that contribute to a decrease in mortality in severe influenza. COX-2 inhibitors are thought to be secure in the treatment of COVID-19 and may reduce disease progression in groups of high risky elderly patients with pneumonia due to their treatment of inflammation [15].

It has also been shown in previous studies that the severity and course of the inflammatory process differ decidedly between male and female [16]. Simona Pace et al. found that isolated lipopolysaccharide causes more PGE2 production in males and this may be due to increased COX-2 expression [17]. It is also thought that PGE2 levels, which are an important lipid agent and enhance more in men, may be a factor that explains the more severe disease formation condition of COVID-19 in men [16]. The parallelism of the increase in PGE2 and disease rates suggests that COX-2 inhibitors may be effective in treatment.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the place of COX-2 enzyme inhibition in COVID-19 treatment as in silico. In addition to the effect of these drugs (Scheme 1) on suppressing inflammation and reducing the severity of the disease, the ability to bind to the SARSCoV- 2 factor will be evaluated. This attachment is very important in terms of preventing the viral factor from entering the cell and preventing the effects of the disease on the body.

Material and Methods

The AutoDock 4.2 molecular docking program was used to find best binding interactions of selected selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs against SARS-CoV-2. The three-dimensional (3D) crystal structure of the protein Mpro was retrieved from Protein Data Bank (PDB) (PDB ID: 6LU7) [18]. The 3D structure of the drugs was downloaded from the PubChem (https://pubchem. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) in structure-data file format. The most suitable of the possible binding modes obtained as a result of the Molecular Docking processes were determined with Autodock 4.2, and their analyzes and visuals were obtained with the Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer 2020 program [19-21]. In the present study, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor drugs Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, Lumiracoxib, Parecoxib, Etoricoxib, and Firocoxib molecules were used for docking procedures. Also, Favipiravir, Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine were used as standard drugs for comparison.

Results and Discussion

The docking analysis result of the molecules and standards Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, Lumiracoxib, Parecoxib, Etoricoxib, Firocoxib, Favipiravir, Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine as inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 (PDB: 6LU7) including binding energy, inhibition constant and important interactions at the active site are demonstrated in Table 1.

The protein-ligand interaction study revealed that the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs are binding at the active site of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro protein with the best poses ranging from -6.27 to -9.40 kcal/mol (Table 1). In the current work, all the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs showed better binding affinity then the standard drugs Favipiravir, Chloroquine, and Hydroxychloroquine (binding affinities of -4.21, -7.22, and -6.26 kcal/mol, respectively), except the Lumiracoxib. Among the best docking scores, only one drug (Lumiracoxib) has been shown the bind in a different region, then the rest of drugs (including standard drugs) and the binding energy of this drug was lowest (-6.27 kcal/ mol) among other drugs that were docked in this study (Figure 1). The best binding affinity (-9.40 kcal/mol) was observed with the drug of Etoricoxib, which have several important amino acid interactions, including hydrogen bonds with Thr 190 and Gln 192, and pi-alkyl interaction with Met 49, Pro 52, Cys, 145, Met 165, and Arg 188. The great binding affinities were also obtained with the drugs of Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, and Parecoxib, which had close binding energies to each other’s (-8.24, -8.51, -8.83, and -8.89 kcal/mol, respectively). The most important interactions with these compounds were with Cys 145 (hydrogen bonding), His 41 (pi-carbon bonding), Met 49 and Met 165 (Pialkyl interactions) (Figure 2). The moderate binding affinity was observed with the drug of Firocoxib (-7.88 kcal/mol). This drug also has some hydrogen bounds (His 41, Cys 145, Thr 190 and Gln 192), Pi-alkyl interactions (Met 49, Cys 145, His 163, and Met 165) and Pi-sigma interaction with Gln 189 (Figure 2).

In general, all the docked selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs showed great binding affinities against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro enzyme by having important interactions on the active site. As shown in Figure 1, only one drug (Lumiracoxib) found to bind different binding site which is not favorable for high binding affinities. Some key amino acids are important on the active site for great binding affinities such as Gly 143, Cys 145, Thr 190, and Gln 192 for hydrogen bonding, His 41 (for Pi-carbon interactions), and Met 49 and Met 165 (for Pi-alkyl interactions).

Conclusion

In summary, we have performed molecular docking of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs (Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, Lumiracoxib, Parecoxib, Etoricoxib, and Firocoxib) with the important therapeutic target protein of SARS-CoV-2 and compared them with the standard drugs Favipiravir, Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine. The obtained dock scores demonstrated that all the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs (except Lumiracoxib) showed a better binding affinity against SARSCoV- 2 Mpro enzyme than the standard drugs. More specifically, Etoricoxib (-9.40 kcal/mol) have shown the best binding affinity. This docking study indicates that these selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs might be useful lead molecules to discover potent and less toxic SARS-CoV-2 drugs in the near future.

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[prism-industries]

Quinine Hydrochloride: A Leading Solution for Malaria Treatment Medicine

Introduction

Malaria remains one of the most prevalent infectious diseases worldwide, with millions of cases reported each year. As the fight against malaria continues, quinine hydrochloride has proven to be an effective treatment for this potentially deadly disease. Produced as a key malaria treatment medicine, quinine hydrochloride plays a significant role in combating the malaria treatment drugs market. As an essential anti-malarial drug, it has been a cornerstone in malaria therapy for decades. This article explores the relevance of quinine hydrochloride, its importance in malaria treatment, and how active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), such as quinine hydrochloride, are manufactured in India by leading companies like Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd., a well-established API manufacturer company in India.

The Role of Quinine Hydrochloride in Malaria Treatment

Malaria, caused by the malaria parasite, is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, chills, and in severe cases, organ failure or death. Quinine hydrochloride is one of the most effective malaria treatment medicines that directly targets the malaria parasite, helping to reduce symptoms and eliminate the parasite from the bloodstream.

Quinine Hydrochloride as a Malaria Treatment Drug

As one of the best anti-malarial drugs, quinine hydrochloride has long been used to treat malaria, especially in cases where other treatments, such as chloroquine, may not be effective due to drug resistance. Quinine hydrochloride works by interfering with the growth and reproduction of the malaria parasite, preventing it from spreading throughout the body. It is commonly used in both intravenous and oral forms to treat different stages of the disease, ensuring that it reaches the bloodstream effectively.

The effectiveness of quinine hydrochloride is well-documented, and it continues to be one of the best anti-malarial drugs used in treating severe malaria cases. Despite newer treatments being introduced, quinine hydrochloride remains a staple in many malaria treatment regimens, especially in regions where drug resistance has made other treatments less reliable.

Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in Malaria Treatment

The production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is crucial in ensuring that effective medicines like quinine hydrochloride reach the market. Active pharmaceutical ingredients are the active components in a medication that provide its therapeutic effect. The API manufacturing in India sector has grown significantly over the years, with companies like Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. playing a leading role in the production of high-quality APIs like quinine hydrochloride.

Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd.: A Leading API Manufacturer Company in India

Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. stands out as one of the most trusted API manufacturer companies in India. Known for its commitment to quality, precision, and innovation, Prism Industries plays a vital role in the production of quinine hydrochloride and other essential APIs. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities adhere to stringent international quality standards, ensuring that every batch of quinine hydrochloride meets the highest levels of safety, efficacy, and purity.

As a significant player in the Indian pharmaceutical industry, Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. is a reliable source for malaria treatment medicine and other vital APIs that support the treatment of diseases like malaria. The company’s research-driven approach and dedication to quality have made it a trusted partner for global pharmaceutical companies in need of effective APIs.

The Importance of API Manufacturing in India

India has emerged as a global leader in API manufacturing, contributing significantly to the global pharmaceutical supply chain. Indian companies like Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. have become key suppliers of essential active pharmaceutical ingredients like quinine hydrochloride, not just for domestic consumption but also for export to countries worldwide. India’s robust manufacturing infrastructure, skilled workforce, and compliance with international quality standards make it an attractive hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing.

India’s competitive edge in API manufacturing lies in its ability to produce high-quality products at competitive prices. This has allowed Indian manufacturers to play a critical role in addressing the global demand for affordable malaria treatment drugs and other life-saving medicines.

Why Quinine Hydrochloride Continues to Be Essential in Malaria Treatment

While new medications and formulations are continuously being developed, quinine hydrochloride remains an important treatment for malaria. Its ability to treat severe malaria, especially in cases of resistance to other anti-malarial drugs, makes it indispensable in global malaria treatment efforts. In remote and underdeveloped regions where healthcare access may be limited, quinine hydrochloride is often one of the most accessible and effective treatments available.

Furthermore, quinine hydrochloride has the advantage of being effective even in areas where malaria parasites have developed resistance to other drugs like chloroquine. This makes it a critical component of malaria treatment protocols worldwide, especially in regions with high malaria burden.

Pharmaceutical Raw Materials and API Manufacturing in India

India is known for being one of the largest suppliers of pharmaceutical raw materials, and the country plays a central role in the global supply of APIs. The Indian pharmaceutical industry has earned a reputation for manufacturing high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for a wide range of diseases, including malaria. Companies like Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. focus on providing the necessary malaria treatment drugs that help control and treat the disease globally.

The continued success of India’s API manufacturing sector lies in its ability to meet the growing global demand for affordable and effective treatments. As the world grapples with the threat of drug-resistant malaria, companies like Prism Industries are working tirelessly to ensure that effective treatments like quinine hydrochloride remain available to those in need.

The Future of Malaria Treatment and API Manufacturing

As the global fight against malaria intensifies, the need for innovative malaria treatment medicines and best anti-malarial drugs will continue to grow. Companies like Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. are playing a crucial role in this battle by manufacturing high-quality API products like quinine hydrochloride that help combat malaria.

Looking ahead, the continued advancement of API manufacturing in India will be essential in meeting the world’s growing pharmaceutical needs. As a leading API manufacturer company in India, Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. is well-positioned to contribute to global efforts in combating malaria and other infectious diseases, ensuring that the best treatment options remain accessible to patients worldwide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, quinine hydrochloride remains an essential part of the malaria treatment drugs arsenal, especially in the face of growing drug resistance. The effective use of quinine hydrochloride in malaria treatment medicine has saved countless lives and continues to be a cornerstone of global malaria management. As a leading API manufacturer company in India, Prism Industries Pvt. Ltd. is proud to be part of the ongoing fight against malaria, providing high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients that ensure the availability of life-saving medicines. With a commitment to excellence, Prism Industries is poised to continue supporting global efforts to eradicate malaria through reliable and effective malaria treatment drugs like quinine hydrochloride.

[buddylistsocial]

The Doctor Behind the Disputed Covid Data

The Doctor Behind the Disputed Covid Data

A college degree at 19. A medical school graduate with a Ph.D. at 27.

By the time he completed training in vascular surgery in 2014, Dr. Sapan Desai had cast himself as an ambitious physician, an entrepreneur with an M.B.A. and a prolific researcher published in medical journals.

Then the novel coronavirus hit and Dr. Desai seized the moment. With a Harvard professor, he produced two studies in…

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

Aspirin in honey: dubious COVID-19 'cures' spread in Brazil

In Brazil, home to the world's second worst coronavirus outbreak, one thing seems to be spreading faster than the virus: the suspect, and sometimes strange, strategies to treat it.

Suggestions for countless improvised remedies are transmitted by WhatsApp, Facebook or old-fashioned word of mouth.

Sometimes, messages encourage the use of mainstream medication like malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, which right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro - like his ally U.S. President Donald Trump - has promoted, despite little evidence of its effectiveness against COVID-19.

But just as often, they lean toward the eccentric: from beans with magical powers to aspirin dissolved in hot honey.

"I got the coronavirus, but I treated myself solely with medicinal herbs," said Beth Cheirosinha, a pink-haired street vender in the northern city of Belem.

"I got some cotton leaves and wormseed. I mashed it up in a blender, mixed it with honey and drank a half cup three times a day," she added in front of her market stall, where she is selling the mixture. Business is booming, she said.

Natália Leal, content director of Agencia Lupa, a fact-checking website, said Brazil was a world leader in terms of coronavirus misinformation. An analysis done by the website drawing on around 100 fact-checkers indicated Brazil had produced by far the most inaccurate posts related to the number of coronavirus deaths and cases of any country worldwide.

Reuters did not find any accounts of patients falling dangerously ill from fantastical cures, but doctors said some Brazilians are ignoring medical advice on social distancing and instead relying on unproven remedies.

It does not help, said Natália Pasternak, a biologist and head of the Question of Science Institute, a Sao Paulo think-tank, that Bolsonaro has frequently promoted unproven treatments.

Last week, for example, Bolsonaro said he would order the Health Ministry to meet with one of his supporters who claimed raw garlic cures COVID-19. He has since promoted anti-parasitic medication ivermectin as "even better than chloroquine."

Continue reading.

[quakerjoe]

According to a Monday night report by the New York Times, Trump’s family stands to benefit from widespread use of the drug. Per that report:

If hydroxychloroquine becomes an accepted treatment, several pharmaceutical companies stand to profit, including shareholders and senior executives with connections to the president. Mr. Trump himself has a small personal financial interest in Sanofi, the French drugmaker that makes Plaquenil, the brand-name version of hydroxychloroquine.

According to Trump’s 2019 Executive Branch Personnel Public Financial Disclosure Reports filed with the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, the 45th president’s three family trusts each have two line item entries describing investments between $1,001 and $15,000 apiece in the Dodge & Cox International Stock Fund.

The Times notes that Sanofi, the drug manufacturer, is the mutual fund’s largest individual holding. According to MarketWatch, the exact size of the fund’s stake in Sanofi “at last check was 3.3%.”

Marketwatch also notes–and shrugs off–additional Sanofi stakes:

It turns out he does look to have more than [a] modest sum invested in Sanofi, because, unmentioned in the Times report, his trusts also hold broader European stock-market index funds.

The iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF IEFA, 1.721% has 0.67% of its holdings in Sanofi, and Sanofi is a 0.78% holding for the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF EFA, 1.660%, which is neither surprising nor notable, in that the French drug maker is so large.

Aside from Trump and his family’s personal stake, at least two of Trump’s closest political allies are closely connected to Sanofi as well.

Republican mega donor and billionaire Ken Fisher runs Fisher Asset Management, one of the drug manufacturer’s largest shareholders.

According to Federal Election Committee (FEC) data compiled by OpenSecrets, Fisher Investments has contributed in excess of $2 million to GOP organizations and politicians over the past five election cycles.

A July 2019 CNBC article notes Fisher’s direct relationship with Trump:

Kenneth Fisher, the founder of investment advisory firm Fisher Investments, along with his wife Sherrilyn, combined to give $250,000 [to fund the Trump Victory Committee]. Fisher historically has backed Republican efforts and contributed to Trump’s first run for president.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, a loyal Trump appointee, previously ran the Invesco mutual fund. That fund is also heavily invested in Sanofi. In a Monday statement obtained by the Times, Ross sought to distance himself from both his former work and the administration’s current jones for hydroxychloroquine pills.

Ross claimed he “was not aware that Invesco has any investments in companies producing” the anti-malarial medication, “nor do I have any involvement in the decision to explore this as a treatment.”

Trump, on the other hand, is pitching hydroxychloroquine as something of a wonder drug in an attempt to dredge hope from whatever he can.

“What really do we have to lose?” Trump asked during a Sunday press briefing, while boosting the drug’s potential for the umpteenth time–despite the lack of proof about its effects and warnings from doctors that patients who have long needed the medication may face a run on supplies and rising costs.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes the scientific uncertainty around hydroxychloroquine in a fact sheet specifically about Plaquenil, which is typically prescribed for adult lupus patients.

“The precise mechanism by which hydroxychloroquine exhibits activity against [the malaria parasite] is not known,” the FDA fact sheet reads. “Hydroxychloroquine, like chloroquine, is a weak base and may exert its effect by concentrating in the acid vesicles of the parasite and by inhibiting polymerization of heme. It can also inhibit certain enzymes by its interaction with DNA.”

Notably, a scientific publication which published the initial study on the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine in treating Coronavirus patients has since performed an explicit volte-face on those initial findings–saying the article extolling the virtues for COVID-19 treatment “does not meet the [International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy’s] expected standard, especially relating to the lack of better explanations of the inclusion criteria and the triage of patients to ensure patient safety.”

As Law&Crime reported on Monday, Sanofi isn’t the only hydroxychloroquine connection to Trump. Novartis, a manufacturer of the drug that agreed to donate up to 130 million doses, once paid Trump’s former personal attorney Michael Cohen more than $1 million for healthcare policy insight following the election in 2016.

[covid-impact]

Novel Coronavirus Drugs Market Size, Share, Global Forecast to 2026

Latest  Novel Coronavirus Drugs Market Report published by Value Market Research, it provides a comprehensive market analysis which includes market size, share, value, growth, trends during forecast period 2020-2026 along with strategic development of the key player with their market share. Further, the market has been bifurcated into sub-segments with regional and country market with in-depth analysis.

The research report also covers the comprehensive profiles of the key players in the market and an in-depth view of the competitive landscape worldwide. The major players in the novel coronavirus drugs market include CanSino Biologics Inc., Entos Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gilead, Inovio, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Naval Medical Research Center, Novavax, Philipps University Marburg Medical Center, SAB Biotherapeutics Inc.. This section includes a holistic view of the competitive landscape that includes various strategic developments such as key mergers& acquisitions, future capacities, partnerships, financial overviews, collaborations, new product developments, new product launches, and other developments.

Get more information on "Global Novel Coronavirus Drugs Market Research Report" by requesting FREE Sample Copy at https://www.valuemarketresearch.com/contact/novel-coronavirus-drugs-market/download-sample

Market Dynamics

The market for novel coronavirus drugs will be in mayhem until a specific drug for the complete treatment of the disease is available. The major drivers for this pandemic drug market are the effect of the virus on a larger scale and the increasing number of deaths even in developed countries like the USA. The drug market will see tremendous growth globally until the number of COVID -19 cases is reported as nil throughout the world. The main challenging factor is the fact that development and testing of suitable drugs and vaccines take a longer time than the rate at which this virus is having a devastating effect on humankind. Restrictions imposed by the WHO may have a restraining effect on the market.

The report covers Porter’s Five Forces Model, Market Attractiveness Analysis and Value Chain analysis. These tools help to get a clear picture of the industry’s structure and evaluate the competition attractiveness at a global level.

Additionally, these tools also give inclusive assessment of each application/product segment in the global market of novel coronavirus drugs.

Browse Global Novel Coronavirus Drugs Market Research Report with detailed TOC at https://www.valuemarketresearch.com/report/novel-coronavirus-drugs-market

Market Segmentation

The entire novel coronavirus drugs market has been sub-categorized into drugs and age group. The report provides an analysis of these subsets with respect to the geographical segmentation. This research study will keep marketer informed and helps to identify the target demographics for a product or service.

By Drugs

·         Remdesivir

·         Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine

·         Ritonavir/lopinavir

·         Ritonavir/lopinavir + interferon beta

·         Others

By Age Group

·         <10 Years

·         10-19 Years

·         20-29 Years

·         30-80 Years

·         >80 Years

Regional Analysis

This section covers regional segmentation which accentuates on current and future demand for novel coronavirus drugs market across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Further, the report focuses on demand for individual application segment across all the prominent regions.

Purchase Complete Global Novel Coronavirus Drugs Market Research Report at https://www.valuemarketresearch.com/contact/novel-coronavirus-drugs-market/buy-now

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We facilitate clients with syndicate research reports and customized research reports on 25+ industries with global as well as regional coverage.

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[darknetmarketnews]

How Dark Web Market Vendors Are Making Use of COVID-19 Epidemic?

The latest Coronavirus pandemic has proved to be quite beneficial for the Darknet market vendors. The epidemic has all in all, facilitated the massive sale of illicit goods in these markets without hesitation. What the vendors have been posting in these markets can be said as - almost everything from masks to stolen credit cards to narcotics and much more. Also, the payments are accepted in various forms of Cryptocurrencies.

The pandemic has made the vendors truly opportunistic aiding them to sell anything and everything that is pretty hard to get from elsewhere. Thus, over the past couple of weeks, they have been continuously exploiting the various opportunities that are provided by the Coronavirus pandemic. In this article, we have taken up the scope to describe in detail what all are being sold in these dark web net markets full-fledged and how the vendors are getting benefited in the process.

Coronavirus Cures / Medicines: As of the current condition, there is no permanent solution for the pandemic named COVID-19. Honestly speaking, there are quite a few therapeutics and vaccines that are available in the market, but none of them has proven its efficacy. The research to find out a permanent solution is still under process.

But, there have been shreds of evidence pointing to the anecdotal sphere of the pandemic that the existing drugs named “Chloroquine” (usually a medication for malaria treatment) could be an effective measure to fight with this pandemic, COVID-19. This has created a spark in public, and there have been repeated comments from the US President Donald Trump regarding the potential of the drugs. It has also been seen that there has been no regulator approval for its use.

Considering the listings in the dark web markets, for the Chloroquine drug, there are quite a lot. As the claims made by Donald Trump, the markets in the deep web directories offer a pack of 150 pills for just $500. Another website of similar content has been selling vials for only $5,000, and the vendor puts up claims of a fair price on it. What is most concerning in this matter is the amount of information provided with the listings and the listings being put up on the type of darknet markets. Almost all of the listings contain a very few to no description making it dicier creating a scam alert. But unfortunately, people are falling prey to such listings due to the fact that they are desperate to obtain the treatment.

COVID-19 Diagnostics:

Coronavirus Diagnostics has also been running short during the pandemic. The key reason as to why certain countries have been worse affected is mentioned to be the lack of comprehensive testing capabilities. So, once again the Dark net sites links vendors have stepped forward to exploit this opportunity. There have been listings offering “COVID-19 Test Strips” for as low as $92 each (starting price).

N-95 Masks: It has been found out that the N-95 masks are the crucial thing in protection from the Coronavirus to a great extent. As of the recent times, hundreds of the listings have appeared on the hidden wiki links for the N-95 respirator masks. Due to the massive demand, the masks went to the short supply, and their non-medical uses have been restricted. These masks are usually priced at $1. While the listings on the dark web link markets reveal that these masks are sold at $1.75 each, which is comparatively a low mark up on the retail prices. Compared to this, the usual e-commerce marketplaces like the Amazon and the eBay are selling the same N-95 respirator masks for $10 each.

Obviously, with this, it can be said that the listings put up on the dark web by the pseudonymous vendors can be fraudulent and that the purchasers do not end up getting what they are expecting. What these marketplaces do in order to gain more customers is to employ the vendor reputation systems so that the purchasers can review the products and provide useful insights to the upcoming buyers. Reviews for masks are few in number as they were sold for a brief period. Nevertheless, it can be said that many of the dark web vendors of these markets selling N-95 masks are well established, and star reviewed sellers. For the additional revenue stream, many of these vendors have started selling the masks along with the sale of narcotics and other illegal goods and services.

It is closely noticed, beyond the usual dark web marketplaces, a new online darknet vendor shop has also been launched that is genuinely dedicated to the sale of the masks. The vendor shop operator claims to be a wholesaler from Europe for the hospitals and believes that “Everybody including the medical employees requires an opportunity to obtain a Mask for Protection ”.

Narcotics:

Majority of the dark web vendors have taken this business seriously during the global pandemic. As for the other online retailers, it offers a unique opportunity and may give an indication of a further shift towards online commerce. Many of the .onion links narcotics purchasers will be confined to their homes due to the sudden outbreak having more of their free times with a very less chance of face-to-face transactions.

The situation has created a marketing opportunity providing “COVID-19 end of the world special offers” or “Coronavirus discounts”. Some of the listings put up on the market also have come with the title “Corona LockDown Survival Pack” having contents - Toilet Paper and Cannabis.

How The Hackers’ Revenue Models Have Taken A Soar?

The hackers have also tried their best to get benefited from the opportunity provided by the COVID-19 pandemic. Demands for certain goods and services have risen to the maximum limit, which is listed below:

Selling Credentials Yields Handsome Remunerations:

The hacking forums on the dark web directories are thriving on the significant number of stolen user credentials and financial information. The hackers are now focusing on these attack services as a large number of the remote workers are depending on the video conferencing apps and the other Virtual Private Networks (VPN). Attackers find it extremely easy to exploit the loopholes as the endpoint security at home is not as secure as that in the organizations.

Of the latest Zoom incident, over 500,000 account credentials have been sold on the best dark web websites. As per the recent investigation by IntSights’s researchers, the hackers have shared a database that contains over 2,300 usernames and passwords to the Zoom accounts on the various dark web forums.

Ransomware Demand Exceeds Expectations:

The security of the remote employees’ devices have become a severe concern for the organization all across the globe as they are working remotely from the employees due to the pandemic. Various industry experts have voiced that working remotely has increased the cyber threats all of a sudden. As for the additional level of risks for the organizations, ransomware attacks on the remote workers have increased, more specifically for the healthcare providers and as well as the businesses in the federal, financial and state agencies that deal with various kinds of sensitive data. The operators of the ransomware are creating pressure on the organizations to pay out a high ransom to receive the decryption keys. As calculated, the average organizational ransom payments have increased to 33%, which is $111,605 in the first quarter, 2020, from the fourth quarter of 2019.

For example, the recent occurrence is the ransomware attack on the IT service provider Cognizant who has admitted to being a recent victim of the Maze Ransomware. The Maze ransomware attack had caused severe service disruptions for some of its clients.

Latest Phishing Strategies Have Emerged

COVID-19 has provided a golden opportunity for the scammers and the hackers to create luring phishing scams and campaigns containing misinformation, malware infections and weaponized websites that have become widespread across the internet. As for an example, a recent occurrence being a hacker group that had targeted the World Health Organization (WHO) through a very sophisticated phishing attack involving an email hosted on a phishing domain that had tried to trick the employees into providing their credentials. Researchers have also noticed that the phishing attacks are now taking up new forms to trick the users into entering their credentials through the fake forms or even forcing them to download specific malicious attachments.

Another recent occurrence is a security firm who discovered that the threat actors distributed malware such as ransomware disguising as the “Corona Map” in order to steal personal information stored in the browser of the users. The attackers have designed multiple Coronavirus related websites and prompted the users to click and download an application that would keep themselves updated on the current situation. 

The best thing possible in this situation is to have a critical eye on the information being provided to the users rather than blindly trusting them without cross-checking. Also, sticking to the relevant and official sources is highly recommendable as this will, to some extent, eliminate certain defrauding.

[laliberty]

An obviously better solution than sinking the world economy into a great depression is a greater use of “laissez-faire.” The current lockdown strategy is a bleak choice of (allegedly) fewer short term deaths against a much larger long-term death toll. We must return to a business-as-normal situation as soon as possible. We need to free drugs from overbearing drug regulations and make them widely available (with appropriate dosages and warnings) everywhere at a market price without the need for a prescription. We need markets to be free so they can provide a wide choice of medications.

The argument is not for a non-strategy; it is for allowing the markets to define the strategy. For example, the elderly might consider taking chloroquine preventively; it has a long history of being taken to prevent malaria in Africa. It is naïve to think that people can’t inform themselves and take appropriate actions for their own health benefits.

It is also naïve to think that businesses and people won’t adapt to the perceived threat. Restaurants can seat patrons several meters apart. Waiters and cooks can wear masks and gloves. There is an infinite number of innovative ways people will adjust. Just because we cannot imagine a voluntary market solution does not mean one does not exist. South Korea is an example to emulate. Instead of an authoritarian locking down of its people, it took a much more libertarian approach to the problem and is already showing promising results.

This market-oriented strategy is obviously not without risks, but we must move away from the current defensive 16th-century bunker mentality and consider less disastrous economic alternatives.

[ziyadnazem]

Gilead Retracts Monopoly Rights

Pharmaceutical giant Gilead Sciences on Wednesday retracted its effort to score extended monopoly rights and tax breaks on its antiviral drug remdesivir, which scientists are evaluating as a possible treatment in the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Per the Intercept, on Monday the Food and Drug Administration awarded Gilead “orphan” drug status for remdesivir, which would give it a marketing monopoly on the drug for seven years rather than the more typical five, blocking rivals from introducing lower cost versions of it. It would also accelerate FDA approval of the drug and entitle Gilead to grants and tax credits amounting to 25 percent of the cost of clinical drug testing. As the Intercept noted, this status is supposed to encourage development of drugs for rare diseases and is limited to drugs for ailments that affect less than 200,000 people in the country or where the manufacturer is not expected to recoup costs. But it has become one of the vehicles by which pharmaceutical companies are able to extend exclusivity periods and maintain high pricing.

Gilead was able to claim the status because, despite projections showing the virus is likely to infect many times that number, at the time of its application there were far fewer cases. According to the Intercept, remdesivir was developed with at least $79 million in federal funding, while Bank of America analysts projected Gilead would make up to $2.5 billion in one-time revenue. Gilead claimed it had only applied for orphan drug status to expedite remdesivir’s approval, but the FDA’s approval faced swift political backlash from Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and a coalition of 50 groups organized by Public Citizen.

On Wednesday, Gilead formally asked the FDA to retract the orphan drug status and told the New York Times in a statement that it was now confident the FDA would pursue a speedy approval regardless. The FDA has agreed to the request, per Reuters.

As Stat noted, former Gilead executive Joseph Grogan is on the White House’s coronavirus task force, and Gilead filed for the status in early March, when it would have been well aware that the disease was likely to grow beyond the 200,000 person cap.

“Gilead folded,” Knowledge Ecology International head Jamie Love told Stat. “It was already known that Covid-19 was spreading in the U.S. and the CDC was warning it could be a pandemic.

Remdesivir, along with hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, is one of the drugs Donald Trump claimed could accelerate efforts to handle the pandemic in the U.S., which now has over 68,350 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. It’s previously shown effectiveness in limiting mortality from the Ebola virus. While early signs were promising, remdesivir’s efficacy in treating the virus has yet to be proven. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director Dr. Anthony Fauci has sought to temper expectations on how well known drugs will perform.

The drug is one of several being looked at in a major World Health Organization study. Earlier this week, Gilead halted distribution of the drug under an emergency access program to start large-scale trials that have not yet begun, catching some patients and doctors off guard.

“Gilead has submitted a request to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to rescind the orphan drug designation it was granted for the investigational antiviral remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 and is waiving all benefits that accompany the designation,” Gilead wrote in the statement. “Gilead is confident that it can maintain an expedited timeline in seeking regulatory review of remdesivir, without the orphan drug designation. Recent engagement with regulatory agencies has demonstrated that submissions and review relating to remdesivir for the treatment of covid-19 are being expedited.”