Identification, characterization, and in silico ADMET prediction of nirmatrelvir and its degradation products using HPLC-PDA and LC-QTOF-MS/MS.

Rationale: Nirmatrelvir is a protease inhibitor that is essential for virus replication. Nirmatrelvir is indicated for the management of mild to severe cases of COVID-19 in individuals who are 12 years of age or older. Forced degradation studies of nirmatrelvir were carried out on the drug substance in solid and solution forms, subjecting it to various stress conditions according to International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Q1A(R2) and Q1B guidelines.