While looking at various ways on how research and science could help address coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato dela Peña on Friday said Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval may be sought to make virgin coconut oil (VCO) a supplement.
During the “Laging Handa” public briefing, dela Peña said clinical trials will soon be executed to see the effectiveness of VCO in Covid-19 patients’ recovery.
“The Ethics Committee already approved this yesterday. It (clinical trial) needs the patients’ consent, but we know that VCO has no harmful effects and toxicity,” he said, adding that VCO has antiviral properties.
“Pwede s’yang i-apply ng approval from FDA para gawing supplement (It can be applied from FDA, to make it a supplement),” he said.
Dela Peña said there would be two clinical trials — a hospital based, and a community based trial.
Earlier on his social media account, he mentioned that the hospital-based clinical trial would assess the possible benefits of VCO if given to patients with moderate to severe Covid-19.
In the community-based study, on the other hand, VCO will be incorporated in the food provided to the patients, as well as their contacts and other high-risk groups.
The DOST will fund the two clinical trials, and will also give directions.
