Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir) is a prescription medication used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19. This drug stops the multiplication of viruses in the cells and body to help the body overcome the infection and improve. The active ingredient in Paxlovid is Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir belongs to a class of medications called antivirals. It works by stopping the spread of the virus in the early stages of COVID-19 in the body. Ritonavir belongs to a class of drugs called pharmacokinetic boosters. It works by slowing the metabolism of Nirmatrelvir so it can remain active in the body for long and at high concentrations to combat the virus.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Paxlovid from Canada (not available at this time) manufactured by Pfizer in the strength of 150mg/100mg film-coated tablets. The generic Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any signs or an allergic reaction while taking Paxlovid. The most common side effects of Paxlovid may include the following:
• Altered sense of taste;
• Diarrhea;
• Muscle aches;
• Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Appetite loss;
• Breathing difficulties;
• Dark-colored urine;
• Dark-colored urine;
• Itchy skin;
• Pale-colored stool;
• Severe dizziness;
• Stomach pain;
• Swelling of face, throat, or tongue;
• Yellowing of skin
These are not all of the side effects of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Paxlovid if you are allergic to Nirmatrelvir, Ritonavir, or any ingredient in Paxlovid. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have allergies;
• Have HIV infection;
• Have intolerance to some sugars;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Paxlovid and other medicines, including alfuzosin, neratinib, ranolazine, colchicine, lurasidone, and pimozide. The use of Paxlovid in children and adolescents has not been established. Do not give the drug to children younger than 18. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir. Refrain from sexual activity or use effective contraception while taking the drug and until after completing one full menstrual cycle after your last dose. It is unknown if Paxlovid passes into breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for seven days after your last dose. Contact your doctor if you do not feel better after five days. Paxlovid contains two medicines – Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir, to be used for five days. Swallow the tablets whole. You can take Paxlovid with or without food. Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. If you miss a dose within 8 hours of the time you usually take it, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss the dose by more than 8 hours, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your scheduled time. Keep Paxlovid away from the reach and sight of children. Store below 250C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
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