• Published on: May 19, 2021
  • 1 minute read
  • By: Dr Rakesh Rai

Launch Of New Antiviral Against COVID-19

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG) – Launch of new antiviral against COVID-19.

A new drug developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in association with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has been launched following approval for emergency use in the treatment of Covid-19 patients by the Drug Control General of India (DCGI).

This drug is only available in India and there is no data from any other country regarding its use in COVID-19 patients.

This drug called 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG) is a glucose molecule that has been modified. This drug is taken up by the virus and collects inside virus cells and prevents its replication.

This drug has not undergone a detailed clinical trial at present that’s why it has been granted not routine approval but emergency approval. Limited trial data has shown that it hastens the recovery of hospitalized patients with COVID and reduces oxygen dependence.

Most of the evidence for the molecule efficacy has come from laboratory data rather than its uses in COVID -19 patients. In the viral cell lines in the lab, it was found that they inhibited cell growth.

The drug comes in powder form in the sachet and is taken orally by dissolving it in water. This drug will be available only on prescription and only for hospitalized patients. The drug most likely will be available for use by mid-June.

We need to remember that in the last year many anti-viral and other medications came into the market to be used against COVID -19 including – hydroxychloroquine, Ivermectin, doxycycline, and azithromycin. None of these medicines were found to have any significant effect on COVD-19 patients in human trials.

Unless we have data of efficacy and safety which comes from a large clinical trial done on patients with COVID-19 patients, it will be difficult to conclude its final role in the fight against COVID-19.

Dr. Rakesh Rai.

MS, FRCS, MD, CCST, ASTS Fellow (USA).

Read Blog

Teen Mental Health – Signs Parents Must Never Ignore

Teenage years are a time of transformation—emotionally, physically, and mentally. While moodiness and rebellion may seem like part of the package, sometimes these behaviors can hide serious mental health issues.

Today, more teenagers are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and even thoughts of self-harm—but many go unnoticed because the signs are subtle.

As a parent or guardian, it’s crucial to know the early signs of mental health problems in teens. Let’s explore the red flags you should never ignore and how you can help your child feel supported and heard.

 

Why Teen Mental Health Matters More Than Ever

In India and around the world, teen mental health issues are on the rise due to:

  • Academic pressure
     

  • Social media stress
     

  • Body image concerns
     

  • Bullying or peer pressure
     

  • Family conflicts
     

  • Hormonal changes
     

Ignoring early signs can lead to worsening conditions or even risky behavior. Early action is the key to prevention and healing.

 

5 Warning Signs of Teen Mental Health Issues

 

1. Withdrawal from Family and Friends

If your once-social teen starts avoiding friends, skipping family dinners, or isolating in their room more than usual—it could be a sign of depression or anxiety.

What to watch for:

  • Saying "I’m fine" but acting distant
     

  • Losing interest in favorite activities
     

  • Avoiding calls or texts from friends
     

 

2. Sudden Drop in Academic Performance

Stress, low motivation, or emotional exhaustion often lead to a dip in school performance. If your child suddenly starts failing or avoids school altogether, take it seriously.

What to watch for:

  • Skipping homework or classes
     

  • Teachers reporting attention issues
     

  • Saying "What’s the point?" or "I don’t care anymore"
     

 

3. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits

Teen depression often changes daily habits. Some teens may sleep or eat too much, while others may lose their appetite and suffer insomnia.

What to watch for:

  • Skipping meals or binge eating
     

  • Staying up all night
     

  • Always feeling tired
     

 

4. Talk of Hopelessness or Self-Harm

If your teen talks about feeling worthless, says things like “No one cares” or shows an interest in self-harm—it’s a serious red flag.

What to watch for:

  • Negative self-talk
     

  • Writing or drawing about death
     

  • Wearing long sleeves to hide cuts
     

Tip: If you hear even a hint of suicidal thoughts, seek professional help immediately.

 

5. Unexplained Aches and Pains

Sometimes mental health problems appear as physical complaints, especially in teens who struggle to express emotions.

What to watch for:

  • Frequent stomach aches, headaches, or nausea
     

  • No clear medical cause
     

  • Always feeling “sick” before school or social events
     

 

How to Support Your Teen

As a parent, your role is not to fix everything but to listen and support. Here’s how:

  • Create a safe space: Let your teen know they can talk without judgment
     

  • Ask open-ended questions like:
    “How have you been feeling lately?”
    “Do you want to talk or just need someone to listen?”
     

  • Avoid dismissing their emotions with phrases like:
    “You’ll get over it” or “It’s just a phase”
     

  • Encourage healthy routines:
    Regular sleep, a balanced diet, physical activity, and tech breaks
     

 

When to Seek Professional Help

Call a psychologist, counselor, or pediatrician if you notice:

  • Signs persist for more than 2–3 weeks
     

  • Risky behavior like substance use, aggression, or self-harm
     

  • Extreme withdrawal or refusal to attend school
     

  • Talk of suicide or self-hatred
     

 

Useful Health Checks for Teens (Available at SecondMedic.com)

Mental health issues can also be connected to physical imbalances. Consider these lab tests (via Thyrocare):

Thyroid Profile

Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can affect mood and energy.

Vitamin D Test

Low vitamin D is linked to fatigue, depression, and anxiety.

CBC (Complete Blood Count)

To rule out anemia or infections that might affect mood or focus.

CRP Test (C-Reactive Protein)

Detects inflammation, which can also impact mental well-being.

These tests are easily bookable online with home sample collection and fast results.

 

Conclusion

As a parent, you play a key role in recognizing early warning signs and guiding your teen to emotional well-being. What may look like rebellion, laziness, or "drama" could actually be a silent cry for help.

Stay present. Stay open. And most importantly—act early.

If you're unsure about what’s normal and what’s not, just remember this: Teen mental health – signs parents must never ignore could be the first step to saving a life.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic