Pfizer antiviral could join molnupiravir as efficacious add to global arsenal
Efficacy of as much as 89% raises bar for antivirals against COVID
A readout showing that Pfizer’s direct-acting antiviral reduced the risk of hospitalization or death by as much as 89% in COVID-19 patients could set up the pharma for an emergency use authorization early next year, with authorizations in more geographies to follow, while offering a therapy with greater efficacy than an antiviral from Merck and Ridgeback.
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) said Friday that an interim analysis of the Phase II/III EPIC-HR study data showed oral Paxlovid (PF-07321332) combined with ritonavir and administered within five days of the onset of symptoms cut the risk of hospitalization or death by 85% compared with placebo (p<0.0001). When given within three days, the risk reduction rose to 89% (p<0.0001). The trial enrolled 1,219 adults...