The National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) negotiations have concluded, with Pfizer’s (NYSE: PFE) COVID-19 therapy Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir, ritonavir) notably absent despite widespread anticipation. The National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA) cited a failure to agree on a price point as the reason for Paxlovid’s exclusion. Industry observers speculated that the NHSA was seeking a price as low as RMB 700 (USD 103) per box, compared to the current price of RMB 1,890 (USD 278.96).
Other COVID-19 Therapies in Negotiations
Other COVID-19 therapies involved in the negotiations included Genuine Biotech’s azvudine and the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) “lung cleaning granules.” Both had been filed for NRDL consideration by their respective manufacturers and had already passed the expert review stage. Azvudine and the TCM were successfully added to the NRDL, with azvudine reimbursed for its approved HIV/AIDS indication. Genuine Biotech stated that the drug’s reimbursement price for HIV could impact its secondary use as a COVID-19 treatment.
Temporary NRDL Coverage
Despite Paxlovid’s failure to enter the NRDL, temporary NRDL coverage for Paxlovid, azvudine, molnupiravir, and cold dispersing and humidifying granules remains intact until March 31, 2023, according to an earlier notice from the NHSA. This temporary coverage ensures continued access to these therapies while negotiations and further discussions are ongoing.
Future Outlook
The exclusion of Paxlovid from the NRDL highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing drug pricing and accessibility. While Genuine Biotech’s azvudine and other therapies secured their place on the NRDL, the fate of Paxlovid underscores the importance of reaching mutually agreeable pricing terms. The temporary NRDL coverage provides a buffer for patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that critical treatments remain available during this transitional period.-Fineline Info & Tech
