Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir And Ritonavir)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Paxlovid Used For?
Paxlovid is a medication that combines two active ingredients, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, to treat COVID-19 in adults who are at higher risk of hospitalization or death.
Primary Uses
Paxlovid is primarily used for treating COVID-19.
How It Works
Nirmatrelvir inhibits viral replication, while ritonavir enhances its effectiveness by slowing down its metabolism.
Good to know: Paxlovid is not addictive.
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How to Take Paxlovid
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Paxlovid, which involves specific dosing based on your health condition.
Dosage Instructions
The standard dosage is two 150 mg tablets of nirmatrelvir along with one 100 mg tablet of ritonavir every 12 hours for 5 days. If you have kidney issues, your doctor may adjust the dosage.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose within 8 hours, take it as soon as you remember. If it's been more than 8 hours, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Changes in taste
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Generally feeling unwell
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions including skin peeling, blisters, sore throat, or fever
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before taking Paxlovid.
Who Should Not Take Paxlovid
Do not take Paxlovid if you are allergic to nirmatrelvir, ritonavir, or any of the inactive ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of liver or kidney problems with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Paxlovid should not be taken during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 days after. Do not breastfeed while taking Paxlovid and for 48 hours after stopping.
Drug Interactions
Paxlovid may interact with several medications, which can affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of serious side effects.
- Alfuzosin
- Silodosin
- Pethidine
- Amiodarone
- Simvastatin
- Rifampicin
- St. John's Wort
Alcohol & Driving
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption or driving while taking Paxlovid.
Alcohol
No specific information is available regarding alcohol consumption.
Driving and Operating Machinery
There is no specific information on how Paxlovid affects your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Storage
Store Paxlovid below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Paxlovid is typically taken for 5 days, and its effectiveness may vary based on individual health conditions.
Paxlovid can be taken with or without food.
No, Paxlovid is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Paxlovid without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
There is no specific information available regarding alcohol consumption while on Paxlovid.
There is no information indicating that Paxlovid causes weight gain.
Elderly patients should discuss their health conditions with their doctor before taking Paxlovid.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.