Edit: Ahmed Al-Kumi

A source in India announced today that it will not add Merck's Corona pill drug to the national treatment protocol because of concerns about its side effects, which could cause embryonic abnormalities and cell changes, according to the country's Medical Research Council.

The Indian Council of Medical Research, which is run by the State, said it had become aware of the drug's "major safety concerns."

The Director-General of the Board, Balram Bhargava, stated: "It can cause embryonic abnormalities and mutations, as well as cartilage damage and muscle damage."

He added: "More importantly, contraceptives must be used for three months if given, because they can cause abnormalities."

Merck contends that a study of its drug proves that it does not lead to congenital abnormalities or cancer, that it has already used higher doses and longer periods than those normally used in humans, that the World Health Organization has not included it in the Corona treatment protocol, and that the United Kingdom has not yet included it.

As of now, the current recommendation indicated that it was not part of the NAP treatment.