Tag

Antiviral

All articles tagged with #antiviral

Post-exposure COVID shield: new antiviral pill cuts household transmission
health12 days ago

Post-exposure COVID shield: new antiviral pill cuts household transmission

A NEJM trial shows the antiviral ensitrelvir (Xocova) significantly reduces COVID-19 risk after exposure in households, cutting symptomatic infections from about 9% to 3% and total infections from 21.5% to 14% when given as a five‑day course. Japan has approved ensitrelvir for post‑exposure use; US/EU decisions are pending. The drug is generally well tolerated and may help vulnerable groups, though real‑world impact may be limited as immunity rises and variants shift.

Antiviral pill cuts COVID risk after exposure, NEJM trial finds
health12 days ago

Antiviral pill cuts COVID risk after exposure, NEJM trial finds

A five‑day course of ensitrelvir (Xocova) significantly reduced the risk of developing COVID-19 after household exposure in a double‑blind NEJM phase 3 trial of about 2,000 participants: 9% in the placebo group developed symptoms within 72 hours versus 2.9% in the drug group; by day 10, 14% vs 21.5% tested positive. Side effects were similar between groups. The drug is already approved in Japan for treatment and is being considered for post‑exposure prevention by US/EU regulators; pregnancy safety was not studied.

Top Clinical Trials and Results to Watch in Early 2026
healthcare4 months ago

Top Clinical Trials and Results to Watch in Early 2026

The article previews ten significant clinical trials expected in the first half of 2026, focusing on Eli Lilly's obesity drug retatrutide, Merck's flu antiviral CD388, Regenxbio's gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Novartis' Lp(a) cardiovascular treatment, and other innovative therapies for rare diseases and cardiovascular conditions. Success in these trials could lead to major advancements and market approvals in their respective fields.

Link Between Herpes Virus and Alzheimer's Disease Explored
health9 months ago

Link Between Herpes Virus and Alzheimer's Disease Explored

The article discusses the potential link between herpes virus infections and Alzheimer's disease, noting that while L-lysine may help reduce herpes outbreaks, there is no conclusive evidence yet that it prevents Alzheimer's. Vaccination against shingles may lower Alzheimer's risk, but more research is needed. The article also emphasizes the importance of proper treatment for severe allergic reactions, warning against using over-the-counter alternatives like Primatene Mist for anaphylaxis.

"Paxlovid's Limited Efficacy in Shortening Covid Symptoms for Vaccinated Adults Revealed"
health-medicine2 years ago

"Paxlovid's Limited Efficacy in Shortening Covid Symptoms for Vaccinated Adults Revealed"

Full trial results published in the New England Journal of Medicine confirm that Pfizer's antiviral drug Paxlovid did not shorten Covid-19 symptoms in vaccinated adults and those at low risk for severe symptoms, despite being marketed as a treatment for the virus. The pill was granted full approval last May to treat mild-to-moderate Covid-19 in adults at high risk for developing severe symptoms.

"Harnessing the Power of Willow Bark Extract for Antiviral Defense"
science-and-health2 years ago

"Harnessing the Power of Willow Bark Extract for Antiviral Defense"

Researchers in Finland have discovered that willow bark extract exhibits potent antiviral properties against a range of viruses, including COVID-19 and enteroviruses. The extract, derived from the same plant that yields aspirin, has shown promise in inhibiting viral activity without harming cells. The study's findings suggest that willow bark extract could lead to the development of new antiviral treatments, offering a potential solution for combating viral infections and addressing future outbreaks. Further research is needed to identify the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the extract's antiviral effects, with the aim of developing revolutionary new antiviral medications.

"Understanding Paxlovid: The Antiviral Pill for Preventing COVID Deaths"
health2 years ago

"Understanding Paxlovid: The Antiviral Pill for Preventing COVID Deaths"

Despite its effectiveness in reducing hospitalizations and deaths among high-risk COVID-19 patients, the antiviral drug Paxlovid has seen slow uptake due to concerns about interactions with other medications, minor side effects, and affordability. The medication, a combination of ritonavir and nirmatrelvir, is given in a five-day course and is available by prescription for those aged 12 and older at high risk for severe disease. While the federal government initially provided the drug for free, Pfizer now distributes it at a cost, raising concerns about access for some patients. Despite its potential to prevent hospitalizations and deaths, Paxlovid's slow adoption represents a missed opportunity in the fight against COVID-19.

Real-world study shows lower efficacy of Pfizer's Paxlovid
health2 years ago

Real-world study shows lower efficacy of Pfizer's Paxlovid

A real-world observational study has revealed that Pfizer's COVID-19 antiviral, Paxlovid, is not as effective in preventing hospitalization or death in high-risk patients as previously shown in earlier studies. The study found that Paxlovid was 37% effective, compared to earlier studies that reported efficacy rates as high as 89%. It is worth noting that the earlier studies were conducted in an unvaccinated population. The study also examined Merck's COVID antiviral, Lagevrio, which demonstrated a 41% reduction in hospitalizations and death compared to placebo. The research was based on the medical records of approximately 69,000 patients in Florida and Ohio.

"Unlocking the Power of Star Anise: Nature's Immune-Boosting Digestive Aid"
health2 years ago

"Unlocking the Power of Star Anise: Nature's Immune-Boosting Digestive Aid"

Star anise, a spice commonly used in cooking, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years and is known for its immune-boosting benefits. It contains potent antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help fight respiratory infections, soothe digestive issues, promote better sleep, and more. The spice is rich in antioxidants and specific compounds like shikimic acid, which is also found in the antiviral drug Tamiflu. Research suggests that star anise may even have the ability to ward off the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can be consumed in various forms, such as whole star, ground, oil, or capsules, and can be added to dishes or brewed into tea for its health benefits.

FDA Fully Approves Pfizer's Oral Antiviral Paxlovid for COVID-19 Treatment in Adults
health3 years ago

FDA Fully Approves Pfizer's Oral Antiviral Paxlovid for COVID-19 Treatment in Adults

The FDA has approved Paxlovid, an oral antiviral pill, for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19. Paxlovid is the fourth drug and the first oral antiviral pill approved by the FDA to treat COVID-19 in adults. The efficacy of Paxlovid was primarily supported by the final results of the EPIC-HR clinical trial, which showed an 86% reduction in the proportion of people with COVID-19 related hospitalization or death from any cause through 28 days of follow-up.