Doctor urges south Londoners to take part in COVID-19 trial

A medic is urging south Londoners to take part in a COVID-19 trial that could save the lives of people at risk from the virus.

The Sunrise-3 trial is investigating a new treatment for COVID-19. Bemnifosbuvir is an investigational antiviral drug candidate. Researchers want to see if it reduces the risk of hospitalisation and death in patients. People will receive the drug or a placebo containing no active treatment.

Professor Paul Dargan is a Consultant Physician and Clinical Toxicologist. He works at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. He is the Chief Investigator for the Sunrise-3 trial in the UK and Principal Investigator at Guy’s and St Thomas’. Professor Dargan said:

“The COVID-19 virus has mutated to produce several new variants. We must remain prepared for any mutations and continue to develop new treatments. We still have much to learn about the virus. Some people may not develop a good immune response from COVID-19 vaccination. A poor immune response means they can be more affected by a COVID-19 infection.”

The Atea Pharmaceuticals Inc trial is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The NIHR Clinical Research Network South London is helping recruit patients for the trial.

The NIHR is the largest funder of health and care research in England.

Email sunrisetrial@gstt.nhs.uk or call 02071 884700 to find out more.