New VA study finds Paxlovid may cut the risk of long COVID

Patients had a reduced risk of developing long COVID after taking Paxlovid, and the benefits were seen among those who were vaccinated and unvaccinated. (Stephanie Nano/AP)

It's well-documented that Paxlovid — a 5-day course of antiviral pills from Pfizer — can reduce the risk of hospitalization in COVID-19 patients who are more likely to develop severe illness.

Now, researchers from the Veterans Health Administration find that taking the medication may also reduce the risks of later developing long COVID, according to a new study that was posted online this weekend and has not yet undergone peer review.