OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

Pfizer Advances Ibuzatrelvir, a Novel Oral Antiviral, into Phase 3 Trial for COVID-19

5 months ago

• Pfizer has initiated a Phase 3 clinical trial to assess ibuzatrelvir, a new oral antiviral drug, for treating non-hospitalized, high-risk COVID-19 patients. • Ibuzatrelvir, designed to be administered without ritonavir, aims to reduce drug-drug interactions and taste disturbances associated with current treatments like PAXLOVID. • The trial will evaluate ibuzatrelvir's efficacy in reducing COVID-19-related hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and mortality over a 28-day period. • This antiviral targets the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro protease, suggesting potential effectiveness against current and future variants of concern, similar to PAXLOVID.

Semaglutide Shows Promise in Reducing Alcohol Consumption and Cravings

6 months ago

• A new study reveals that semaglutide, known as Ozempic and Wegovy, significantly reduces alcohol cravings and consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorder. • Participants on semaglutide experienced fewer heavy drinking days and decreased alcohol intake during lab tests compared to those on a placebo, indicating potential therapeutic benefits. • The research suggests semaglutide's effects on alcohol cravings may surpass existing treatments, offering a promising avenue for addressing the unmet needs in alcohol use disorder. • Further studies are warranted to explore semaglutide's long-term efficacy, optimal dosages, and safety, particularly for individuals without obesity or diabetes.