AstraZeneca Withdraws COVID-19 Vaccine Worldwide Due to Surplus of Updated Vaccines
AstraZeneca has announced the global withdrawal of its COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria, citing a surplus of newer vaccine options available since the pandemic’s onset. This decision includes the withdrawal of marketing authorizations for Vaxzevria across Europe.
Concerns over reported side effects, such as blood clots and low blood platelet counts, have likely contributed to the decline in demand for Vaxzevria. AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment of these side effects in court documents underscores the significance of this decision.
The withdrawal process began with AstraZeneca’s application on March 5 and became effective on May 7. This move aligns with AstraZeneca’s strategic shift towards respiratory syncytial virus vaccines and obesity drugs, diversifying its portfolio amidst declining COVID-19 medicine sales.
