AstraZeneca Withdraws COVID-19 Vaccine Worldwide

AstraZeneca announced on Tuesday its decision to initiate the global withdrawal of its COVID-19 vaccine, citing a surplus of available updated vaccines amid the ongoing pandemic. 

The company also revealed plans to withdraw the marketing authorizations for its vaccine Vaxzevria within Europe.

Reason for Withdrawal: 

AstraZeneca stated that the emergence of multiple variant COVID-19 vaccines has led to a surplus of updated vaccine options, resulting in a decreased demand for Vaxzevria. As a consequence, the company has ceased manufacturing and supplying the vaccine.

Safety Concerns: 

Media reports have highlighted AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment, as seen in court documents, of side effects associated with the vaccine, including blood clots and low blood platelet counts. These safety concerns have likely contributed to the decline in demand for Vaxzevria.

Withdrawal Process: 

The firm’s application to withdraw the vaccine was submitted on March 5 and officially took effect on May 7. This decision marks a significant development in the company’s response to the evolving landscape of COVID-19 vaccine distribution and safety considerations.

Diversification Efforts: 

AstraZeneca’s decision to withdraw its COVID-19 vaccine comes amidst its strategic diversification efforts. 

Last year, the London-listed company expanded its portfolio through various deals in respiratory syncytial virus vaccines and obesity drugs. 

These moves aimed to offset a slowdown in growth as sales of COVID-19 medicines declined.