Mechanism and Clinical Research Progress of Nirmatrelvir Tablets/Ritonavir Tablets: A New Therapeutic Agent for COVID-19

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To review the mechanism and the clinical research progress of nirmatrelvir tablets/ritonavir tablets(PaxlovidTM), so as to provide references for its rational usage. METHODS: Literatures related to nirmatrelvir tablets/ritonavir tablets in the official website of US Food and Drug Administration, Pubmed, Embase, CNKI, CBM and Wanfang were systematically searched. The basic information, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical efficacy evaluation, safety, drug interaction, drug use in special populations were reviewed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Nirmatrelvir tablets/ritonavir tablets inhibit the replication of SARS-COV-2 virus by inhibiting the processing of SARS-CoV-2 protein precursor mediated by the main protease. Based on current trial results, nirmatrelvir tablets/ritonavir tablets can significantly reduce hospitalization and mortality rates in adult patients with mild and moderate COVID-19. More research is required to determine whether the drug is appropriate for the clinical treatment of all COVID-19 patients.