Paxlovid, a medication used to treat COVID-19, has been shown to offer minimal protection against severe illness and hospitalization in vaccinated older adults.
Researchers at UCLA led a study that examined the effectiveness of Paxlovid on vaccinated seniors. They found that while the medication may be beneficial for unvaccinated adults, its impact on vaccinated individuals is limited.
The study, published in JAMA, used data from Ontario, Canada, where access to Paxlovid was restricted to certain age groups. The researchers compared the outcomes of patients who were just below and above 70 years old, but found no significant difference in COVID-19-related hospitalization or mortality between the two groups.
The study’s lead author, Dr. John Mafi, stated that “our results effectively rule out the notion that Paxlovid causes large reductions in COVID-19 hospitalization in vaccinated older adults.” The findings suggest that Paxlovid’s effectiveness on vaccinated seniors is four times weaker than previously reported.
The researchers emphasized the need for further studies to investigate Paxlovid’s effects in higher-risk populations, such as frail or immunosuppressed older adults. Their study underscores the importance of continued research into COVID-19 treatments and vaccines for these vulnerable groups.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-02-paxlovid-vaccinated-seniors-minimal-covid.html