Benzinga | Dec 17, 2021 09:53AM EST

EMA Might Not Decide On Merck's COVID-91 Oral Antiviral Before Christmas: Reuters

The EU drug regulator might not decide whether to approve Merck & Co Inc's (NYSE:MRK) molnupiravir, COVID-19 antiviral until after Christmas, a source with knowledge of the matter said, Reuters said.

* But according to the source, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) may rule before Christmas whether to give Gilead Sciences Inc's (NASDAQ:GILD) intravenous antiviral drug Remdesivir full marketing approval.

* Related Link: EU Backs Merck's COVID-19 Pill For Adults At Risk Of Severe Illness.

* If the Merck ruling on molnupiravir comes in the new year, that would be later than expected.

* In November, the agency said it expected to complete its review by the year-end.

* Also See: AdComm Narrowly Backs Merck's COVID-19 Pill, Despite Efficacy Questions.

* Price Action: MRK shares are up 0.92% at $76.61, GILD stock is down 0.03% at $72.29 during the market session on the last check Friday.