It is a brand-name medication that combines two antiviral drugs: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir.
Paxlovid is a swallowable tablet that stops the COVID-19 virus from replicating and progressing to a more severe state.
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How Does Paxlovid Work?
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Paxlovid comes in a package that contains two different antiviral drugs: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir.
By actively preventing viral replication, nirmatrelvir stops the virus from copying its DNA, leading to death.
Taking Paxlovid in the early stages of COVID-19 infection can help prevent the infection from becoming severe.
Ritonavir isnt active against SARS-CoV-2.
Instead, ritonavir works by enhancing the effectiveness of nirmatrelvir.
Ritonavir also works by acting as a booster and lengthening the time and effects of nirmatrelvir in the body.
Together, ritonavir and nirmatrelvir are effective in treating COVID-19.
Paxlovid effectively reduces the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization or death by 89%.
A study comparing Paxlovid toplacebo.
Paxlovid Approval
Paxlovid has been available for healthcare providers to prescribe for COVID-19 since December 2021.
Similar to the process used for COVID-19 vaccines, Paxlovid was initially authorized by the FDA through an EUA.
The EUA remains in effect for pediatric individuals.
Notably, in July 2022, the FDA authorized pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid in some instances.
Therefore, if you want to take Paxlovid, you might contact a pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Alternative Uses of Paxlovid
Paxlovid usually is not prescribed for reasons besides COVID-19.
It is also known as long-haul COVID or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC).
More clinical trials are needed to determine whether Paxlovid benefits other uses, including treating or preventing long COVID.
Side Effects & Safety
Like all medications, Paxlovid carries the potential for adverse effects.
Read on to learn about some of the most common and severe side effects associated with Paxlovid.
Some people may be at higher risk for Paxlovids side effects than others.
Before starting Paxlovid, tell your healthcare provider if you have liver problems orkidney impairment.
Paxlovid isnt safe for everyone.
The drug isnt known to cause long-term side effects.
you could take Paxlovid with or without food.
Paxlovid is packaged in a dose card that helps you keep track of your doses.
You may be prescribed a different dosage if you have reduced kidney function.
Certain drugs interact with Paxlovid.
Drug interactions can lead to severe side effects or may cause medications to be less effective treatments than usual.
Your body processes Paxlovid using CYP3A, an enzyme that breaks down many medications.
Certain drugs and supplements can interact with Paxlovid, making it a less effective treatment.
Additionally, Paxlovid can interact with certain drugs and increase their risk or severity of side effects.
Examples include:
This is not a complete list of drugs that interact with Paxlovid.
Talk to a pharmacist or healthcare provider for more details about drug interactions with Paxlovid.
Summary
The FDA initially authorized Paxlovid under an EUA to treat COVID-19.
Paxlovid is an antiviral medication used to treat COVID-19 and should be started within five days of symptom onset.
Before taking Paxlovid, discuss your other medications with your healthcare provider.
Severe COVID symptoms, such as shortness of breath, can result in hospitalization and other serious complications.
Paxlovid has dramatically reduced the risk of COVID-related hospitalization and death.
Other FDA-approvedtreatment optionsfor COVID-19 includeLagevrio (molnupiravir)and Veklury (remdesivir).
Lagevrio (molnupiravir) is an oral medication used for five days.
Additionally,hydroxychloroquineis not recommended for COVID-19.
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doi:10.1093/cid/ciac443
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms of COVID-19.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Underlying conditions and the higher risk for severe COVID-19.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Long COVID basics.
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