Russia medics propose Kaletra (ARV) as possible COVID-19 treatment

Kaletra, ARV drugs being tested for COVID-19 in Russia.

In Moscow Russia, a black market has opened for an antiviral HIV drug(ARV) analyzed as a possible treatment for COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new Coronavirus. 

According to reports, the sellers, HIV activists and the head of the drug's main Russian producer says ARV could be a game-changer in the fight against the naval virus.

More than 20 trials around the world are testing Kaletra as a COVID-19 treatment or post-exposure prophylaxis.

Russia's Health Ministry proposed it as a possible treatment for COVID-19 at the end of January after reports from China that it was beneficial, but later added that its suitability was risky.

"Three months ago, people were buying Kaletra from us without much enthusiasm for 900 roubles ($12) a box," one online trader of HIV drugs said.

"Now, anticipating (supply) interruptions, people are buying between 100 and 700 boxes from us, at 3,800 roubles a box. Mainly, people are buying (Kaletra) with the aim of reselling it for a very high price, " the seller added.

Resellers can get 7,000-8,000 roubles per box, the trader said and that frenzy is worrying some HIV-positive people.