Did you test positive for COVID-19, and did your doctor prescribe a special medicine pack? Or maybe a member of your family received this treatment? The medicine is called Paxlovid. It actually contains two different medicines combined into one treatment. Using this medicine safely requires knowing a few important details. Let us talk about it in a clear, simple way. There is nothing to fear once you have the right information.
When you start a new treatment, it is completely normal to have questions. This guide will walk you through everything step by step. We want you to feel confident and fully informed while you recover.
Key Takeaways
- Paxlovid is an antiviral medicine used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people at high risk for severe illness.
- It combines two medicines, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, to stop the COVID-19 virus from multiplying in your body.
- You must tell your doctor about all other medicines you take because Paxlovid has many serious drug interactions.
- Always finish the full five-day course, even if you start feeling much better after a couple of days.
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What is Paxlovid?
Simply put, this is a medicine given to treat a COVID-19 virus infection. However, it is not for everyone. Doctors prescribe this medicine for people with mild or moderate symptoms who have a high risk of the disease becoming severe. For example, if an older adult or someone with diabetes or heart disease gets COVID-19, the illness can easily become serious. That is where this medicine becomes very helpful.
This medicine works by stopping the COVID-19 virus from multiplying and spreading inside your body. It uses two medicines together. Those are nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. These two medicines work as a team to control the virus.
Things to Tell Your Doctor First
This step is extremely important. If you have any of the following health conditions, you must tell your doctor before starting this medicine. Do not hide anything from your doctor.
- Allergies of any kind: Tell your doctor if you have allergies to these medicines, other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- Kidney disease: This is very important if you have any kidney problems. Your doctor may need to change your dose.
- Liver disease: Tell your doctor if you have any liver conditions.
- Pregnancy: Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: Tell your doctor if you are nursing a baby.
- Other serious conditions: Mention any other major health issues you currently face.
Note: Sharing these details with your doctor protects your health. It helps your doctor make the safest and most effective choice for your care.
How to Use This Medicine Correctly
You will see two types of pills in your medicine pack. The standard dose usually includes:
- Two pink nirmatrelvir pills.
- One white ritonavir pill.
You must take all three pills together, twice a day, with water. Swallow the pills whole. Do not chew, break, or crush them.
You can take them with or without food. However, if the medicine upsets your stomach, taking it with food can help. It is essential to take this medicine for the full number of days your doctor prescribed. Do not stop early. Even if you feel better, finish the entire course.
Do Children Take This Medicine?
Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine for children who are 12 years of age and older. However, only a qualified doctor can make that choice. Talk with your doctor to see if this treatment is appropriate for a child.
What If You Take Too Much?
If you suspect you took more medicine than prescribed, call your local poison control center right away. In the US, call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. In the UK, call 999 or NHS 111. You can also go straight to the nearest hospital emergency department.
What If You Miss a Dose?
Imagine you forgot to take your morning dose. If it has been less than 8 hours since your scheduled time, take the missed dose right away. However, if it has been more than 8 hours, skip the missed dose completely. Take your next dose at the regular time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Other Medicines That Interact with Paxlovid
This is a critical area requiring close attention. Paxlovid can interact with many different medicines. Therefore, you must tell your doctor about every single medicine you take. Review the two lists below carefully.
| Never Take Paxlovid With These Medicines! | Examples |
|---|---|
| Certain cholesterol-lowering medicines | Lovastatin, Simvastatin |
| Heart rhythm medicines | Amiodarone, Flecainide, Propafenone, Quinidine |
| Certain mental health medicines | Clozapine, Lurasidone, Pimozide |
| Migraine medicines | Dihydroergotamine, Ergotamine |
| Pulmonary hypertension medicines | Sildenafil (Revatio) |
| Other drugs | Alfuzosin, Colchicine, Rifampin, St. John's Wort |
| Possible Interactions - Talk to Your Doctor | Examples |
|---|---|
| Blood thinners | Rivaroxaban, Warfarin |
| Birth control pills | Oral contraceptives |
| Blood pressure medicines | Amlodipine, Diltiazem, Nifedipine |
| Antifungal medicines | Itraconazole, Ketoconazole |
| Steroid medicines | Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, Budesonide |
| HIV medicines | Various antiretrovirals |
These lists are not complete. Tell your doctor about everything you take, including pharmacy products, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Watch your symptoms: Pay attention to whether your symptoms improve or get worse. If your symptoms do not improve or turn worse, contact your doctor right away.
- Note for people with HIV: If you have untreated HIV, this medicine might reduce how well your future HIV treatments work. Discuss this with your doctor.
- Birth control considerations: Birth control pills may become less effective while you take this medicine. If you wish to avoid pregnancy, talk with your doctor about using a backup method like condoms.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medicine, Paxlovid can cause side effects. Some reactions need prompt medical attention.
| Seek Medical Help If You Notice These Signs | Description |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. |
| Liver injury signs | Pain on the upper right side of your belly, poor appetite, nausea, pale stools, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, severe tiredness. |
| Severe skin reactions | Redness, blisters, or peeling skin, including inside your mouth. |
| Common, Mild Side Effects (Tell Doctor If Persistent) | Description |
|---|---|
| Taste changes | An unusual or metallic taste in your mouth. |
| Other mild symptoms | Stomach discomfort, diarrhea, muscle aches, mild blood pressure increase, general fatigue. |
When to Seek Emergency Help
If you experience severe breathing trouble, chest pain, sudden confusion, or blue lips, call 911 (US/Canada), 999 (UK), or your local emergency number right away, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How to Store This Medicine
- Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
- Store it at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Keep it away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Do not use medicine that has passed its expiration date.
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