TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian researchers participated in a joint clinical study to search for drugs to treat COVID-19 dubbed `Solidarity Trial` led by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Health Ministry’s Head of Health Research and Development Agency, Siswanto, made the announcement through a written statement on Tuesday, March 31.

According to him, Indonesia had previously joined the global study for testing one type of drug before stating its readiness to participate in the research to test four alternative medications to treat the new coronavirus disease.

"This active participation is expected to find the best alternative to treat COVID-19 patients in Indonesia,” said Siswanto, adding that over 45 countries have also joined the effort.

WHO representative for Indonesia, Navaratnasamy Paranietharan, welcomed Indonesia’s participation that he considered a valuable contribution in a rapid global effort in the discovery of effective drugs.

The four different drugs to be tested are remdesivir; a combination of two drugs, lopinavir and ritonavir; the two drugs plus interferon-beta; and chloroquine.

The global testing is aimed at obtaining stronger and valid clinical evidence of the effectiveness and safety of the four drugs against COVID-19. The multi-country clinical study is specifically designed to shorten the time needed to produce substantial proofs of the drugs without neglecting the principles of the Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

To ensure that the implementation of the Solidarity Trial in Indonesia is carried out based on the standards, the Health R&D Agency is directly involved in the coordination.

As of Wednesday, April 1, Indonesia has a total of 1,528 positive cases of COVID-19. Of the number, 136 people died and 81 others recovered.

ANTARA