All articles tagged with #paxlovid
Pfizer beat Q1 2026 estimates with adjusted EPS of 75 cents and revenue of $14.45 billion, reaffirming its 2026 guidance as growth from newly launched and acquired drugs offsets declines in Covid vaccine and Paxlovid sales; the company is pursuing long-term pipeline investments, notably a $10 billion Metsera acquisition, with 2026 targets of about $2.80–$3.00 in adjusted EPS and $59.5–$62.5 billion in revenue.
A New England Journal of Medicine analysis of Canadian and UK trials (about 4,200 participants) found Paxlovid does not reduce hospitalizations or death in a largely vaccinated population, though users recovered about three days faster; the results could influence how public funding and prescriptions are targeted for antivirals.
Two open-label randomized trials in the UK (PANORAMIC) and Canada (CanTreatCOVID) found that early Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir–ritonavir) did not reduce hospitalizations or deaths among vaccinated high-risk outpatients, though it shortened time to recovery and lowered viral load. Adverse events were common and one trial stopped early due to slow recruitment and Paxlovid supply. Experts caution against overinterpreting the findings, suggesting antivirals may still be useful on a case-by-case basis in older or immunocompromised individuals or where rapid recovery is a priority.
Pfizer beat Q4 estimates with adjusted EPS of 66 cents on $17.56 billion in revenue, despite weaker demand for its Covid vaccine and Paxlovid; it reaffirmed a modest 2026 outlook, plans about $7.7 billion in cost cuts by 2027, and is betting on long-term growth from the Metsera acquisition, including obesity therapy data, while facing ongoing price pressure in Medicaid and competitive pressures on older drugs.
Two recent studies show that Paxlovid offers limited protection against long COVID, with only a small benefit observed in older adults, and negligible effects in younger populations, suggesting its role in preventing long-term COVID symptoms is minimal.
A meta-analysis of nine studies published in the Journal of Infection found that early use of oral antiviral drugs, particularly Paxlovid, reduced the risk of long COVID by 23%. The study suggests that broader use of antivirals may be beneficial in preventing long COVID, highlighting the importance of timely antiviral intervention.
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the antiviral drug Paxlovid did not significantly reduce symptom duration for fully vaccinated individuals with at least one risk factor for severe COVID-19. The trial included 1,296 participants and showed no significant difference in symptom alleviation between those who took Paxlovid and those who took a placebo. Experts caution that the findings might not apply to older, high-risk populations and suggest that longer-term studies on Paxlovid are needed to assess its potential benefits, particularly for those at highest risk for disease progression.
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.
Paxlovid, an antiviral treatment for COVID-19, is proven to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization, but it is underused due to high cost, doctors' hesitation to prescribe, and concerns about drug interactions. The drug was initially free but now has a list price of $1,390, making it inaccessible for many. Additionally, reimbursement rates and insurance coverage issues are hindering its availability. A study found that Paxlovid was disproportionately given to lower-risk patients, potentially preventing thousands of COVID-19 deaths if properly utilized.
The Star Tribune Editorial Board highlights the swift and no-cost access to COVID treatment through a state program, as a patient was able to obtain a prescription for Paxlovid and have it filled at a nearby pharmacy within hours of testing positive, showcasing the effectiveness of the program in providing timely care for those eligible.
Access to the COVID-19 antiviral drug Paxlovid should be easier, as it is widely available and affordable. However, some healthcare providers are still reluctant to prescribe it, citing concerns such as "Paxlovid rebound," which studies have shown to be unfounded. Officials urge healthcare providers to prescribe antivirals to eligible patients, especially those at high risk for severe COVID-19. Patients who are declined Paxlovid can seek other healthcare providers or utilize free telehealth services for treatment.
Despite the widespread availability and effectiveness of Paxlovid, many doctors are still reluctant to prescribe it due to outdated concerns about "Paxlovid rebound" and potential side effects. However, officials at both federal and state levels are urging healthcare providers to properly prescribe Paxlovid and other antivirals, especially for high-risk COVID-19 patients, as studies show that early antiviral treatment can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. Patients who are declined a Paxlovid prescription can seek out other healthcare providers or utilize free telehealth services for access to treatment.
Pfizer's antiviral medication Paxlovid gained full FDA approval for treating mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms, with a registered nurse advising that it should be taken within five days of diagnosis or at the onset of symptoms. Patients with certain risk factors, such as organ damage or specific medications, should avoid Paxlovid, and potential side effects include hives, trouble breathing, and increased blood pressure. While vaccination remains crucial, Paxlovid is now commercially available, and Pfizer offers programs for affordable access.
COVID rebound is the recurrence of COVID symptoms after initial improvement or a new positive test after a negative one. It's not exactly clear why it happens, but it's thought to occur three to seven days after an infection resolves. While there's debate about the cause, it's suggested that taking Paxlovid may increase the risk. Symptoms are usually mild, and the illness lasts less than a week. Rebound rates vary, and it's recommended to re-isolate and wear a mask if experiencing rebound symptoms. Despite the risk of rebound, it's still recommended for high-risk individuals to take Paxlovid due to its substantial benefits in preventing severe illness from COVID.
Paxlovid, a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, can reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms and hospitalizations, but only 15% of eligible individuals have taken it. It should be started within the first five days of symptoms and is for high-risk patients aged 12 and older. Some doctors may not prescribe it due to shortages, unfamiliarity, and concerns about drug interactions. Side effects include temporary nausea and altered taste, and there's conflicting evidence on its effect on long COVID. It's important to consult a healthcare provider if considering Paxlovid and to continue preventive measures such as handwashing and vaccination.