[thenerdhead]

there are a number of computational/modeling studies suggesting paxlovid needs to be given for at least 7+ days to slow the viral load and prevent rebound.

Pfizer did a preliminary study(the FDA asked them) and quietly published their results on the topic. their data implies a second treatment might shorten the overall duration of the infection consistent with the studies i allude to above. but you probably haven't heard about this news!

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05567952?tab=results

[jerlam]

The Paxlovid dosing guidelines probably need to be changed, but given the current climate and cost it's unlikely to ever happen.

Similarly, the initial two-shot vaccine guidelines probably needed more time in between the doses for more effectiveness, but that's what was tested so that's the official recommendation.

[thenerdhead]

agreed on changing guidelines, disagree its unlikely to happen.

the study is done and just needs to be formally published. then recommendations can "officially" change although the science has been clear about this for quite some time now with this specific drug.

other antivirals dont have this problem because they are actually effective for 10+ days even if you take it for 5 days (Ensitrelvir).

there's countless candidates in the pipeline as well for vaccines, antivirals, and monoclonal antibodies. as they keep getting better, the guidelines will shift slowly but surely.

i personally wish we did this with more urgency.