Health Canada has authorized with conditions the drug remdesivir for patients with severe COVID-19, though Canada's top doctor says the supply is limited. On Tuesday, Health Canada announced the drug is now authorized for use in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older with a body weight of at least 40 kilograms. In April, a study run by the U.S. National Institutes of Health tested remdesivir versus usual care in 1,063 hospitalized coronavirus patients around the world. But Dr. Theresa Tam, chief public health officer of Canada, warned that "the supply with this company is very low globally." Because the drug has been given an expedited review, the manufacturer will have to ensure the continued safety, efficacy and quality of the drug, a statement by Health Canada said.

Source: CBC News July 28, 2020 18:00 UTC