The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine: Remarkably Effective

In a large placebo-controlled trial, ≥7 days after completion of a two-dose regimen, this mRNA vaccine showed 95% efficacy against COVID-19 with relatively mild side effects.

The rapid development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines is one of the few bright spots of 2020. The lipid nanoparticle-formulated, nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine developed by BioNTech and Pfizer, BNT162b2, is among the most anticipated vaccines. Now, researchers have examined the safety and efficacy of a regimen of two 30-µg doses in a multinational placebo-controlled, industry-sponsored trial.

Beginning July 27, 2020, the trial enrolled 43,548 participants who were 16 or older. The vaccine's efficacy against confirmed COVID-19 at least 7 days after the second dose was 95%, and appeared to be consistent by age, sex, ethnicity, body-mass index, and presence of preexisting conditions. The study was not designed to assess single-dose efficacy, but COVID…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine: Remarkably Effective

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Reviewing Author