China-based online pharmacy 111 Inc. (NASDAQ: YI) reportedly initiated online retail sales of Pfizer Inc.’s oral COVID-19 therapy Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir, ritonavir) in China. The price for one box covering a single course of treatment was set at RMB 2,980 (USD 428.23). 111 later released a statement noting that the drug could be accessed by patients with a positive COVID-19 PCR or antigen test, via a prescription issued by the firm’s online hospitals and doctors.
Pricing Controversy
The reports generated some controversy due to Paxlovid’s price of RMB 2,980, while the drug is procured by public hospitals at a price of RMB 2,300. As of December 14, 2022, Paxlovid’s details were not accessible via the 111 platform. Meanwhile, a Pfizer spokesperson said the listing on 111 had been carried out entirely by 111 with no involvement from the US major.
Paxlovid: Indications and Global Approvals
Paxlovid is used to treat adults with mild to moderate COVID-19 with high risk factors for progression to severe disease, such as the elderly (over 60 years old) or those with one or multiple risk factors such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic lung disease. First authorized by the US FDA in December 2021, the drug has obtained market approvals or emergency use authorizations (EUAs) in around 70 markets globally. A conditional market approval was awarded in China in February 2022. The first batches of drugs were made available in the country from March 2022, and the drug is included on the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL).-Fineline Info & Tech
