Paxlovid and other COVID pills
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Key facts about the COVID pill treatment

Two new antiviral pills — Paxlovid and molnupiravir — have been authorized by the FDA for the treatment of COVID-19. Paxlovid is made by Pfizer and molnupiravir is produced by Merck. Clinical trial results, as reported by the FDA, have shown that both pills can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization and death among high-risk patients infected with COVID-19.

What is a COVID pill treatment?

COVID pill treatment is for patients who have already been diagnosed with COVID-19, says the FDA. The pills are different from the COVID vaccine, in that they are not taken to prevent a COVID infection. The pills should not be considered an alternative to vaccines, although they may be especially helpful for people who are immunocompromised or unable to be vaccinated, reports the FDA. COVID pills are intended to reduce the risk of being hospitalized with severe COVID symptoms, according to the DSA.

Before you ask your doctor for a COVID pill prescription, there are some important points to understand, as noted by the FDA:

• COVID pills are approved only for certain groups. They are intended for individuals with mild symptoms who have a higher risk of developing serious illnesses from the COVID-19 virus. This includes people with underlying health conditions — such as heart disease or diabetes — as well as the elderly.
• Some people should not take the COVID pill. The Pfizer COVID pill is approved for individuals 12 and older, while the Merck COVID pill is approved for adults only. Children should not take the Merck pill as it may interfere with bone growth. The pills are not recommended for pregnant women, or individuals with liver or kidney problems.
• The pills may interact with other medications. Let your doctor know of any medications you use before taking the COVID pill. The pills may change the way some other medications work, including heart medications, blood thinners, and HIV medications. You will need to work closely with your doctor to monitor any drug interactions.
• Treatment must be started as soon as possible. To be effective, the pills must be taken within five days of symptoms appearing. Pay close attention to any symptoms and schedule a rapid COVID test as soon as possible if you think you might have COVID. Some of the most common symptoms of COVID include cough, headache, fever, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell.

What to expect from COVID pill treatment

If you test positive for COVID and your doctor deems you to be at high risk of hospitalization, they will likely provide you with a prescription and let you know where you can obtain your pills.

COVID treatment with Paxlovid or molnupiravir is typically very easy as the pills can be taken at home. The FDA recommends that you begin taking your medication as soon as possible, and take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Both medications can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole; do not open or crush them. If you miss a dose, follow your doctor’s instructions for when to take your next dose. Continue taking all of your medication even if you feel better, in accordance with FDA instructions.

According to the FDA, Tthe drugs are intended to reduce the risk of hospitalization. You may not immediately feel better and the duration of your illness may not be reduced when taking the COVID pill.

Possible side effects

Side effects of both drugs, according to the FDA, are reported to be minor. Paxlovid side effects may include muscle aches, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and loss of taste. Side effects of molnupiravir may include nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea.

Molnupiravir can interfere with fetal development. The FDA recommends that women who could become pregnant should use a reliable method of birth control during treatment and for at least four days after completing treatment. Men who are sexually active should use a reliable form of birth control for at least three months following treatment.

What to expect after treatment

FDA guidance recommends that if you do not feel better after taking your medication for five days, or if your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

What safety measures should I continue to follow?

Even if you feel better, remain in isolation as long as directed by your doctor. If you are high-risk, continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing, in accordance with CDC guidelines and recommendations.

What scientists are still learning

The safety and effectiveness of COVID pill treatments will continue to be evaluated by the FDA, and other new treatments are likely to follow.