Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir): An Innovative Method Method for Treating Covid-19?

Abstract

Nirmatrelvir Ritonavir 3-c like protease COVID-19 SARS-COV-2Despite the need for innovative, efficient treatment for the Covid Pandemic, there is currently no curative regimen available, leaving patients to rely on supportive and general treatments. The 3C like-protease (3CLpro) and the main protease (Mpro), two SARS-COV-2 proteins, have been identified as potential targets for antiviral medications. The Mpro might be viable therapeutic target since it plays a significant role in both the pathogenesis of the virus and processing. Nirmatrelvir, an antiviral medication, prevents SARS-CoV-2 from reproducing by blocking Mpro. Another HIV protease inhibitor, ritonavir, was coupled with nirmatrelvir to develop. Ritonavir inhibits the cytochrome P450 3A metabolizing enzyme, extending the half-life of nirmatrelvir and serving as pharmacological enhancer. Despite major modification of the SARS-COV-2 viral genome, nirmatrelvir still has strong antiviral effectiveness against contemporary coronavirus strains. However, there are still a number of open issues. The effectiveness of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir in treating SARS-COV-2 infection, as well as their safety and potential adverse effects are discussed in this review of literature.