Everything You Need to Know About Paxlovid: An Information Sheet for Patients
If you or a loved one has recently tested positive for COVID-19, you may have heard of a new medication called Paxlovid. Approved by the FDA in November 2021, Paxlovid has been hailed as a promising treatment option for patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms. But what exactly is Paxlovid, and how does it work?
What Is Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is a medication that contains two drugs: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. These drugs belong to a class of medications called protease inhibitors, which work by blocking an enzyme called the SARS-CoV-2 protease. This protease is essential for the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. By inhibiting the protease, Paxlovid can help to slow down or stop the replication of the virus.
How Is Paxlovid Taken?
Paxlovid is taken orally as four tablets, twice daily, for a total of five days. The medication should be taken with food as this helps to increase absorption and reduce the risk of digestive side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Who Is Eligible for Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kg) who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death. Paxlovid is not authorized for the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19, requiring oxygen supplementation, or those who require hospitalization for COVID-19.
What Are the Side Effects of Paxlovid?
Like all medications, Paxlovid can cause side effects. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials included nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In rare cases, Paxlovid may cause more serious side effects, such as liver injury and allergic reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Paxlovid, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Can Paxlovid Be Used in Combination with Other COVID-19 Medications?
Paxlovid should not be used in combination with other medications that are metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme system, including certain HIV medications and certain antibiotics. This is because ritonavir, one of the drugs in Paxlovid, also inhibits the CYP3A4 enzyme system, which can lead to increased levels of these medications in the blood and increased risk of side effects.
Conclusion
Paxlovid is a promising new medication that can help to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms in high-risk patients. However, like all medications, Paxlovid has potential side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. If you or a loved one has tested positive for COVID-19, talk to your healthcare provider about whether Paxlovid may be a suitable treatment option for you.
