Drugmaker Hetero has got the approval of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to manufacture and sell the generic version of Gilead's Remdesivir for the treatment of coronavirus patients in the nation.

The generic versionwill be marketed under the brand name 'Covifor' and is currently beingmanufactured in Hyderabad.

Officials of thecompany states, the drug will be a 'game-changer', "Backed by strong backwardintegration capabilities, we can ensure that the product is immediately madeavailable to patients across the country. We are prepared for ensuring enoughstocks required to cater to the present needs."

Sources in the company said since the product has been approved for Emergency Use and for use in a hospital or institutional set up only, it will not be retailed through chemists. Each 100 mg vial (injectable)  is likely to be priced between Rs. 5,000 and 6,000.