Pfizer pill 'Paxlovid' has been approved for use as a COVID treatment at home in U.S. Paxlovid prevents viral multiplication during the proteolysis stage by inhibiting the SARS-CoV-2-3CL protease (i.e., before viral RNA replication). It is the first oral and at-home drug and a new weapon against the fast-spreading Omicron variant. According to data from Pfizer's clinical study, Paxlovid, the company's antiviral regimen, was nearly 90% successful in reducing hospitalizations and deaths in patients at high risk of severe illness. Pfizer has increased its supply predictions in the United States from 80 million to 120 million therapy courses by 2022. A novel antiviral and an older antiviral called ritonavir is also there in the treatment's two-drug regimen.

Pfizer produced Nirmatrelvir, an antiviral medication that functions as an orally active 3CL protease inhibitor. The FDA granted Paxlovid, a combination of nirmatrelvir and the CYP3A4 inhibitor ritonavir, Emergency Use Authorization for treating COVID-19 in high-risk individuals over the age of 12 in December 2021. The US has placed a contract for ten million medical courses at a cost of $530 each course. The tablets could fill a therapy void left by the Omicron variety. The medicine is only accessible with a prescription. It will start as soon as possible following a COVID-19 diagnosis and within five days of the commencement of symptoms.

Reference: - https://edition.cnn.com/2021/12/22/health/pfizer-antiviral-pill-authorized/index.html