Core Viewpoint - Traws Pharma is advancing the development of ratutrelvir, a ritonavir-free treatment for COVID-19, through two Phase 2 trials aimed at evaluating its safety and efficacy compared to PAXLOVID®, with top-line data expected by the end of 2025 [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Overview - Traws Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for respiratory viral diseases, including COVID-19 and Long COVID [6]. - The company integrates antiviral drug development with medical intelligence and regulatory strategy to address challenges in treating viral diseases [6]. Group 2: Product Development - Ratutrelvir is an investigational oral small molecule Mpro (3CL protease) inhibitor designed to treat SARS-CoV-2 without the need for ritonavir, potentially avoiding drug-drug interactions [3]. - Preclinical and Phase 1 studies indicate that ratutrelvir maintains target blood plasma levels significantly above the effective concentration, which may reduce the likelihood of clinical rebound and Long COVID [3]. Group 3: Market Context - In Q2 2025, Pfizer reported $427 million in sales for PAXLOVID®, marking a 70% increase from the same period the previous year, highlighting the ongoing demand for effective COVID-19 treatments [2]. - The rapid emergence of new viral variants, such as NB.1.8.1, which now accounts for 40% of COVID cases, underscores the need for effective antiviral therapies [2]. Group 4: Clinical Trials - The first trial will compare ratutrelvir against PAXLOVID® in newly diagnosed COVID patients, while a second trial will focus on PAXLOVID®-ineligible patients, a vulnerable group with limited treatment options [1][2]. - Results from both Phase 2 studies are anticipated by the end of 2025, which could provide critical proof-of-concept data for ratutrelvir [2].