Paxlovid for COVID-19
Paxlovid is an oral antiviral pill that has received emergency use authorization (EUA) from the FDA. If you get sick with COVID-19, it can keep your symptoms from getting worse and prevent you from going to the hospital.
- You tested positive for COVID-19, and;
- Your symptoms started within the last 5 days, and;
- You have health conditions that put you at high risk, and;
- You’re age 12 or older
Talk to your doctor to see if Paxlovid is right for you. This medication is covered by health insurance, or free if you don’t have insurance.
Make an appointment with your doctor to talk about COVID-19 treatment options.
Don’t have a doctor? Find a doctor or start a video visit. For help, call 704-468-8888.
Frequently asked questions
Paxlovid is an antiviral medication that includes 2 different drugs: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. The treatment keeps the virus that causes COVID-19 from reproducing, preventing you from getting sicker.
Paxlovid is available by prescription only and can be taken at home. Treatment should start as soon as possible and must be within 5 days of the onset of COVID-19 symptoms.
During treatment, you take 3 pills twice a day for 5 days (a total of 30 pills). If you start to feel better before treatment is complete, do not stop taking the medication. Paxlovid may be less effective if it’s not taken as directed.
Most people who take Paxlovid should not experience serious side effects. Some possible side effects of Paxlovid are:
- Changed sense of taste
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Muscle aches
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Feeling generally unwell
According to the FDA, allergic reactions or liver problems can also occur.
Stop taking Paxlovid and contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction:
- Hives
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- Swelling of the mouth, lips, or face
- Throat tightness
- Hoarseness
- Skin rash
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these signs and symptoms of liver problems:
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
- Dark-colored urine (pee)
- Pale-colored stools (poop)
- Itchy skin
- Stomach pain
These are not the only side effects that may happen. If you’re concerned about side effects while taking Paxlovid, contact your healthcare provider.
Paxlovid can cause interactions with other common medications. Before starting Paxlovid, tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Your doctor can tell you if it’s safe to take Paxlovid with your other medicines.
Research studies have shown that taking Paxlovid within 5 days of the start of COVID-19 symptoms can lower your risk of getting more severe symptoms and being admitted to the hospital.
If you don’t feel better or your symptoms return after finishing your treatment, talk to your healthcare provider.
Treatment is covered by health insurance, meaning you should not have any out-of-pocket costs. If you don’t have health insurance, it’s free.
We recommend talking about the risks and benefits with your doctor.