How Does Paxlovid Work? (Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir)

Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) is a prescribed antiviral medication administered orally, designed to combat the symptoms of COVID-19, a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It’s a branded medication that combines two antiviral drugs, namely nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Paxlovid is available in the form of swallowable tablets, which impede the replication of the COVID-19 virus and prevent it from progressing to a severe state.

Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval for Paxlovid to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults aged 18 and above who are at a high risk of developing severe illness. Additionally, Paxlovid received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) in December 2021 for specific high-risk pediatric cases (individuals under 18), effectively reducing the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization or death.

In this article, we at TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track aim to provide our patients and readers with comprehensive information about Paxlovid, covering essential topics like how it works, potential side effects, and more, to ensure you have a clear understanding of this medication.

How Does Paxlovid Work?

Paxlovid contains two distinct antiviral drugs: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir halts the viral replication of SARS-CoV-2, a type of coronavirus, by obstructing the virus’s ability to copy its DNA during multiplication. Administering Paxlovid early in a COVID-19 infection can prevent the infection from becoming severe.

Ritonavir, while not directly active against SARS-CoV-2, enhances the effectiveness of nirmatrelvir by extending its duration and potency in the body. Together, ritonavir and nirmatrelvir form an effective combination against COVID-19.

Studies have shown that Paxlovid can reduce the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization or death by 89%. In a comparison study with a placebo, only 9 out of 1,039 individuals taking Paxlovid succumbed to COVID-19, compared to 66 out of 1,046 people taking a placebo.

Paxlovid Approval

Paxlovid has been available for healthcare providers to prescribe for COVID-19 since December 2021. Similar to the process for COVID-19 vaccines, it initially received FDA authorization through an EUA. While EUAs do not follow the same approval process as regular FDA reviews, they still require safety testing before emergency use.

On May 25, 2023, Paxlovid obtained full FDA approval for treating mild to moderate COVID-19 in high-risk adults, while the EUA remains in place for pediatric cases.

In a significant development in July 2022, pharmacists were authorized to prescribe Paxlovid in specific situations, allowing eligible patients to access timely treatment within five days of symptom onset.

When to Use Paxlovid

Paxlovid treatment should commence as soon as possible following a positive COVID-19 test result or within five days of symptom onset. Common COVID-19 symptoms include cough, fever, chills, sore throat, shortness of breath, muscle aches, fatigue, and headache.

Paxlovid is authorized for high-risk pediatric individuals aged 12 and older, weighing at least 88 pounds, and at risk of developing severe COVID-19 due to various factors such as age, underlying health conditions, and more. It is not approved or authorized for prevention in individuals who may have been exposed to the virus; its use is specifically intended after a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis.

Alternative Uses of Paxlovid

Paxlovid is primarily prescribed for COVID-19 treatment. However, one of its components, ritonavir, has been used in combination with other drugs to treat different viral illnesses like hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. While Paxlovid is not approved for treating long COVID, some evidence suggests it may help alleviate its symptoms. Additionally, taking Paxlovid during the acute phase of COVID-19 may reduce the risk of developing long COVID. Nevertheless, more clinical trials are required to confirm these potential benefits.

Side Effects & Safety

As with any medication, Paxlovid carries the potential for side effects. Common side effects include dysgeusia (an altered taste sensation) and diarrhea. Other possible side effects encompass high blood pressure, muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, increased liver enzyme levels, and, rarely, severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

Severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported but are rare. Certain individuals may be at higher risk for Paxlovid’s side effects, particularly those with pre-existing liver or kidney issues or HIV infection.

Paxlovid is not recommended for individuals with known allergies to its components, specific drug interactions, or certain medical conditions. It is generally a five-day treatment with side effects expected to resolve after the last dose, with no known long-term side effects.

How to Take Paxlovid

Paxlovid treatment should commence as soon as possible after a COVID-19 diagnosis, within five days of symptom onset. It can be taken with or without food. Each dose comprises three tablets: two 150 mg nirmatrelvir tablets (300 mg total) and one 100 mg ritonavir tablet. These tablets are taken orally twice daily for five days and come in a dose card to help track the regimen. Adjusted doses may be prescribed for individuals with reduced kidney function.

Paxlovid Interactions

Before taking Paxlovid, inform your healthcare provider about your current medications, herbs, or supplements. Paxlovid interacts with certain drugs and can affect their effectiveness. The enzyme CYP3A processes Paxlovid, and using specific medications during Paxlovid treatment may result in either excessive or inadequate drug levels in your body.

Some drugs and supplements can reduce Paxlovid’s effectiveness, such as certain seizure medications, rifampin, and St. John’s wort. Paxlovid can also interact with other drugs, potentially increasing their side effects, including alfuzosin, antiarrhythmic medications, lurasidone, atorvastatin, colchicine, dihydroergotamine, and certain migraine medications.

This is not an exhaustive list of Paxlovid’s interactions, so it’s essential to consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for comprehensive information on drug interactions with Paxlovid.

Summary

The FDA initially granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Paxlovid as a treatment for COVID-19. It has since received full approval for use in high-risk adults with mild to moderate COVID-19, aimed at preventing the progression to severe illness.

Paxlovid is an antiviral medication designed for the treatment of COVID-19 and should ideally be initiated within five days of the onset of symptoms. Each dose of Paxlovid comprises three oral tablets, consisting of two 150 mg nirmatrelvir tablets and one 100 mg ritonavir tablet.

Before starting Paxlovid, it’s important to discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider.

In summary, it is imperative to remain vigilant and prepared for the potential increase in COVID-19 cases during the fall and winter months. If you experience symptoms, do not hesitate to visit one of our conveniently located TGH Urgent Care walk-in centers for COVID-19 testing. Additionally, ensure that you are up to date with your vaccinations if you haven’t already done so.

TGH Urgent Care, powered by Fast Track, is committed to delivering high-quality care for non-life-threatening medical issues, catering to patients aged 3 months and older. Our services encompass the management of various ailments, including urinary tract infections, ear infections, and influenza. With our in-house laboratory testing and advanced imaging capabilities, we can provide prompt and comprehensive diagnoses. Moreover, we have an on-site pharmacy to efficiently fulfill any necessary prescriptions.

Our extensive network of 15+ TGH Urgent Care locations operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, ensuring access to COVID-19 treatment when you need it most. For additional information regarding the range of treatments we offer, please feel free to contact us. If you plan to visit, you can expedite your wait time by using our convenient On My Way system to check in ahead of your arrival. Your health and well-being are our utmost priorities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Are there alternative treatments available for COVID-19?

There are other FDA-approved treatment options for COVID-19, including Lagevrio (molnupiravir) and Veklury (remdesivir). Lagevrio is an oral medication typically administered for a five-day course, while Veklury is an intravenous (IV) infusion primarily used in hospitalized individuals with severe COVID-19 for up to seven days.

It’s important to note that hydroxychloroquine is not recommended for the treatment of COVID-19. Initially granted an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for COVID-19, the FDA later revoked this authorization and issued warnings against its use.

• Can Paxlovid be used to treat severe COVID-19 symptoms?

Paxlovid is effective in treating mild to moderate COVID-19 in individuals at a high risk of progressing to severe COVID-19.

Severe COVID-19 symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, can lead to hospitalization and other critical complications. Paxlovid has significantly reduced the risk of COVID-related hospitalization and mortality.

Sources:

TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles.

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