The drug, Paxlovid, is a faster, cheaper way to treat early COVID-19 infections, though initial supplies will be extremely limited. The U.S. has approved its first at-home drug for COVID-19, which reduces the risk of hospitalization by 90 per cent in patients most likely to get severe disease. "You're looking at a 90 per cent decreased risk of hospitalization and death in a high-risk group — that's stunning." WATCH | A doctor explains the significance of Pfizer's new treatment pill: COVID-19: How significant is Pfizer's new treatment pill? The U.S. will pay about $500 US for each course of Pfizer's treatment, which consists of three pills taken twice a day for five days.

Source: CBC News December 23, 2021 02:17 UTC