Core Viewpoint - The approval of the domestic antiviral drug Marzula Shave (brand name: Yisuda) marks a significant shift in the influenza treatment market, potentially breaking the monopoly of imported antiviral drugs [1][2]. Group 1: Product Overview - Marzula Shave is China's first self-developed antiviral drug targeting the influenza virus RNA polymerase PA subunit, filling a gap in the domestic market and providing a strong upgrade to the long-imported drug-dominated influenza treatment market [2]. - The drug works by inhibiting the viral RNA polymerase PA subunit, directly blocking mRNA synthesis, allowing for rapid intervention in the early stages of viral replication [2]. - Compared to traditional neuraminidase inhibitors (like Oseltamivir) and existing PA inhibitors (like Roche's Baloxavir), Marzula Shave offers significant advantages, including a single oral dose for the entire treatment course, improved patient compliance, and a median virus clearance time reduced by 25 hours compared to placebo [2][10]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The global influenza market sees approximately 5%-10% of adults and 20%-30% of children infected annually, leading to up to 500 million severe cases and 650,000 deaths, highlighting the critical need for effective treatments [3]. - The Chinese antiviral drug market is projected to grow to 26.9 billion yuan by 2028, with a dual-track competition emerging between neuraminidase inhibitors (like Oseltamivir) and PA inhibitors (like Baloxavir and Marzula Shave) [6]. - Oseltamivir, which has dominated the market, accounted for 92% of global sales as of mid-2023, with significant market share held by domestic manufacturers [7]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Marzula Shave's entry into the market is expected to shift the competitive landscape from a dual monopoly of Oseltamivir and Baloxavir to a three-way competition involving domestic innovative drugs, imported original drugs, and generic drugs [11]. - The pricing strategy for Marzula Shave is anticipated to be 30%-40% lower than Baloxavir, which could enhance its market penetration, especially given its production capacity of over 4.5 billion tablets annually [10][12]. - The drug's unique positioning focuses on treating healthy individuals aged 12 and above, who represent over 70% of the annual 100 million influenza infections in China [9]. Group 4: Future Prospects - The company plans to expand clinical research for Marzula Shave in pediatric patients and high-risk groups, with potential market capacity expansion of 2-3 times if successful [12]. - The drug is expected to enjoy a six-year data protection period as a new drug, with potential for inclusion in national medical insurance negotiations, providing a competitive edge in the market [10][12].