Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is an oral antiviral medication used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people at higher risk of developing severe illness. It helps reduce the risk of hospitalisation and death when taken early in the infection.
2. How does Paxlovid work?
Paxlovid contains two medicines: nirmatrelvir, which blocks a key enzyme the virus needs to replicate, and ritonavir, which helps keep nirmatrelvir active in the body for longer. Together, they slow down viral replication.
3. Who can take Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is usually prescribed for adults and some adolescents who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at higher risk of severe disease, such as older adults or people with chronic medical conditions.
4. When should Paxlovid be started?
Paxlovid works best when started as soon as possible, ideally within 5 days of symptom onset. Delayed treatment reduces its effectiveness.
5. How is Paxlovid taken?
Paxlovid is taken by mouth, usually twice daily for 5 days. It is important to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve earlier.
6. What are the common side effects?
Common side effects include altered or metallic taste in the mouth, diarrhoea, nausea, headache, and muscle aches. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
7. Are there medication interactions with Paxlovid?
Yes. Paxlovid can interact with many commonly used medications, including some heart, cholesterol, and sedative medicines. A doctor or pharmacist must carefully review current medications before prescribing it.
8. Who should not take Paxlovid?
Paxlovid may not be suitable for people with severe kidney or liver disease, or those taking medications that cannot be safely stopped or adjusted due to serious interactions.
9. What is COVID rebound after Paxlovid?
Some people experience a return of COVID symptoms or a positive test after completing Paxlovid, known as rebound. This is usually mild and short-lived and does not mean the treatment failed.
10. Does Paxlovid replace COVID vaccination?
No. Paxlovid does not replace vaccination. COVID vaccines remain the best way to prevent severe illness, while Paxlovid is used as a treatment after infection has occurred.
