Mexico approves emergency use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 pills

Paxlovid, a Pfizer’s coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pill, is seen manufactured in Ascoli, Italy, in this undated handout photo obtained by Reuters on November 16, 2021. Pfizer/Handout via REUTERS

MEXICO CITY, Jan 14 (Reuters) – Mexican health regulator COFEPRIS said on Friday it had approved U.S. pharmaceutical company Pfizer’s (PFE.N) antiviral oral treatment against COVID-19 for emergency use in adults with light or moderate risk of complications.

Paxlovid, which combines nirmatrelvir and ritonavir in a tablet, will require a prescription, it said in a statement.

The treatment was nearly 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths, and data suggested it retains its effectiveness against the Omicron variant, Pfizer has said.

Late last year, COFEPRIS had approved a similar treatment by Eli Lilly and Co (LLY.N).

Reporting by Mexico City Newsroom

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