
Pfizer’s COVID-19 pill Paxlovid has received a favorable review from U.S. health advisers, boosting the chances of its full regulatory approval by the Food and Drug Administration. Paxlovid received emergency use authorization in late 2021 and has been utilized by millions of Americans. The FDA is expected to make its final decision on full approval by May. Paxlovid has been identified as a safe and effective treatment for high-risk COVID-19 patients. Panelists agreed that Paxlovid still has the potential to benefit unvaccinated and under-vaccinated individuals, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. With more information needed on cases of COVID-19 rebound, Paxlovid would require a case-by-case decision by healthcare professionals. While the medication made no significant difference in healthy individuals, it reduced the risk of hospitalization or death in high-risk adults by 60-85%. However, panelists stressed the importance of carefully managing potentially dangerous interactions between Paxlovid and other frequently used medications.