Pfizer taps GC Biopharma to distribute Covid-19 pill in Korea

GC Biopharma began distributing Pfizer’s oral Covid-19 antiviral Paxlovid in Korea this month, marking a complete shift from government-led to private sector-led supply starting in June.

The Korean drugmaker said Monday it signed a co-promotion and distribution deal with Pfizer Korea. Under this deal, Pfizer Korea will handle all commercial distribution of Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir) nationwide. The two companies will also jointly promote the drug to broaden patient access.

The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two firms, which began in 2005 with a co-marketing deal for the growth hormone therapy Genotropin (somatropin).

The transition comes as Pfizer and Korea’s health authorities thoroughly integrate Paxlovid into the country’s general healthcare system. After securing full regulatory approval in July 2023, the drug’s reimbursement price has been set at 941,940 won ($663.71) per pack since October 2024. 

Paxlovid is indicated for adults with mild to moderate Covid-19, who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness. In clinical trials, the drug reduced the relative risk of hospitalization or death by 86 percent compared to placebo when administered within five days of symptom onset.