Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/24/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Paxlovid
  
• Generic Name: Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir
  
• Uses: Treating COVID-19 in individuals at risk of severe illness
  
• Drug Class: Antiviral
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: No
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Paxlovid is a prescription medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of mild to moderate coronavirus (COVID-19) infections. It is currently available to adult patients and pediatric patients (children over the age of 12 who weigh more than 88 lbs.) who have tested positive for COVID-19 and who are at risk of experiencing a progression of the infection that may result in hospitalization or death.

Paxlovid is only prescribed to patients who have received a positive test for COVID-19 (meaning that the disease has infected them). It will not be prescribed as a measure to prevent exposure to the virus, nor is it a substitute for vaccination against COVID-19.

Paxlovid has recently been approved by the FDA to treat mild-to-moderate cases of the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) in adults and children over the age of 12 who are at high risk of being hospitalized. It is only prescribed to patients who have received a positive test for COVID-19. This medication is not indicated for use as a prophylactic (preventative) against the disease.

Paxlovid consists of two separate drugs, prescribed and administered simultaneously, for the treatment of COVID-19. The two drugs that are taken at the same time are nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir inhibits the SARS-CoV-2 protein, which prevents the virus from replicating. As a supplement, ritonavir slows the breakdown of nirmatrelvir after it has been ingested, allowing the drug to last longer in the body.

Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir are prescribed together as a treatment for COVID-19. They are not meant to be taken individually or at doses other than what is prescribed by your doctor.

Paxlovid is available in the following form:

• Oral tablets (nirmatrelvir tablets and ritonavir tablets packaged together)
  
  

The dosage and frequency of use depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you respond to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Paxlovid is intended to reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and events such as hospitalization and death. Paxlovid is most effective when taken shortly after symptoms begin. It may take several days before your COVID-19 symptoms begin to get better.

Continue using Paxlovid as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription plan is crucial for the effective management of symptoms.

While Paxlovid is primarily used to treat COVID-19 in individuals at risk of severe illness, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions related to COVID-19.

Discuss any alternative uses of Paxlovid with your healthcare provider.

Paxlovid is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets: Nirmatrelvir tablets and ritonavir tablets packaged together
  
  

Paxlovid is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.