Topic: Protease Inhibitors

Pfizer is running commercials for a new oral antiviral pill designed to act as a protease inhibitor to stop COVID-19 replication. Critics point out that existing, low-cost drugs like hydroxychloroquine also function as protease inhibitors, leading to accusations that Pfizer is simply rebranding old science for profit. The pharmaceutical giant is positioning "science" as the ultimate winner in its marketing campaigns for these new daily treatments.

Medical researchers discuss the biological mechanisms of COVID-19, focusing on how the virus latches onto ACE-2 receptors. The conversation explores why older men with comorbidities like hypertension or prostate issues are at higher risk. They hypothesize that the virus may be man-made and discuss how certain treatments can inhibit the virus from entering cells.