Imagine recovering from COVID-19 only to be hit with a wave of lingering symptoms months later. This is the harsh reality for many, with studies suggesting up to 26% of people experience Post-COVID-19 Condition (PCC), also known as Long COVID. But here's where it gets controversial: could a simple antiviral pill be the key to preventing this debilitating aftermath?
New research from Japan's Tokushukai Medical Group and Shionogi & Co., Ltd. sheds light on this pressing question. Their large-scale ANCHOR study, presented at international conferences in 2025, reveals a promising finding: oral antiviral treatment significantly reduces the risk of developing PCC by 14%.
This study, involving over 9,000 COVID-19 patients across 51 hospitals, compared those who received antiviral medications like ensitrelvir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, and molnupiravir with those who didn't. The results were clear: the antiviral group saw a lower incidence of PCC, defined as persistent symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell lasting at least two months after infection.
And this is the part most people miss: while antivirals didn't significantly reduce the need for re-consultations within 28 days of infection, ensitrelvir alone showed a notable 12% decrease in re-visit risk. This suggests antivirals might not only prevent Long COVID but also improve acute symptoms, potentially speeding up recovery.
Dr. Makoto Hibino, lead researcher, emphasizes the significance of these findings: “Managing PCC remains a major challenge, and these results suggest antiviral treatment during the acute phase could be a game-changer in preventing its onset.”
The study aligns with the growing consensus that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing COVID-19. As outlined in the 2025 guidelines by five academic societies, this approach can prevent severe illness, alleviate symptoms, and minimize societal impact.
But is this the definitive answer to Long COVID? While the ANCHOR study offers compelling evidence, it raises further questions. Are all antiviral medications equally effective? What are the long-term effects of these treatments? And how accessible will they be globally?
Tokushukai Medical Group and Shionogi are committed to further research, aiming to solidify the role of antivirals in COVID-19 management. Their collaboration exemplifies the ongoing effort to combat this multifaceted disease.
What do you think? Are antivirals the key to preventing Long COVID, or is more research needed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more information on the ANCHOR study, visit the Tokushukai Medical Group website (https://www.tokushukai.or.jp/en/) or Shionogi's website (https://www.shionogi.com/global/en).
Note: This article contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations and assumptions, subject to risks and uncertainties. Refer to the full disclaimer for details.
