If they can't patent it, and it's known to be cheap, it's a race to the bottom in terms of profits. A pill would be far more profitable. I don't think pharmaceuticals would be eager for anyone to find out about it if they can't control the money.
You still have to pay for clinical trials in the US. If the drug can't be patented then no pharma group will pay for the trials if a generic can come along once trials complete and make just as much money.
Lack of media coverage doesn't mean no one is paying attention.