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As COVID cases rise once more (are we in the fifth or seventh wave?), it's crucial to be aware that a medication exists to prevent severe disease in individuals at high risk of complications. This medication, called Paxlovid, is not available to everyone. Here's how you can determine if you qualify for it.
What Exactly is Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is the brand name for a combination of two generic drugs. One is nirmatrelvir, which inhibits an enzyme that the COVID virus requires for replication. The other is ritonavir, which prevents our body’s enzymes from breaking down nirmatrelvir. Ritonavir is also used in similar ways for HIV treatments.
Paxlovid received emergency-use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration in December 2021, making it a relatively new treatment. If you haven't come across it yet, you're not alone. Many individuals eligible for Paxlovid are unaware of its availability, and not all doctors will recommend it.
When is the right time to start taking Paxlovid?
It’s crucial to begin Paxlovid treatment within five days of noticing symptoms. Waiting longer than a week to seek treatment means Paxlovid won’t be effective.
This medication is not authorized for individuals already hospitalized due to severe COVID-19 symptoms.
Who is eligible to take Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is authorized for individuals who are at least 12 years old and weigh a minimum of 88 pounds. Due to limited availability, it is currently only approved for those at high risk of severe disease. This includes the following groups:
People aged 65 and above
Individuals with cancer
Those with certain chronic illnesses
People with heart conditions
Individuals with diabetes
Those who are immunocompromised
People with a sedentary lifestyle
Those who are classified as "overweight" or "obese"
Current and former smokers
This list is not exhaustive; the CDC offers a more detailed list of conditions that heighten the risk for severe COVID-19. It is not a rigid checklist either. If your healthcare provider deems you high-risk enough to benefit from Paxlovid, you qualify for the medication.
What potential risks come with taking Paxlovid?
Ritonavir, an ingredient in Paxlovid, interferes with a key liver enzyme, so it should not be taken alongside medications that rely on or inhibit that enzyme. Here is a list of incompatible drugs, including certain heart medications, blood pressure drugs, psychiatric treatments, and St. John’s Wort. It's crucial to discuss all medications and supplements with the prescribing doctor before starting Paxlovid.
Paxlovid is generally considered to be “well-tolerated,” meaning it doesn't lead to serious health complications. However, some users may experience side effects such as diarrhea, elevated blood pressure, muscle pain, and a temporary alteration in taste, typically resulting in a metallic flavor.
There are indications that Paxlovid may cause a “rebound,” where viral levels rise after completing the five-day treatment. This is still under investigation. We are unsure of how frequently this occurs or whether extending the treatment duration or taking the drug again would be beneficial.
How can you access Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is a prescription medication, and you must meet specific criteria to qualify. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with a healthcare provider. If you have a primary care physician, reaching out to them would be a good starting point.
Alternatively, you can use the Test-to-Treat locator to locate pharmacies and clinics where you can take a COVID test (or present your at-home test results) and receive a prescription on the same day. You may also call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) or the Disability Information and Access Line at 1-888-677-1199 or [email protected]. Local options are available too; for example, New York City offers a program that delivers Paxlovid to your home if you qualify.
