Helixtalk - Rosalind Franklin University's College Of Pharmacy Podcast

In this episode, we review Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) from the perspective of its pharmacology, efficacy, safety, pharmacists’ authority to prescribe, drug interactions, and rebound symptoms after Paxlovid therapy. Key Concepts Paxlovid is the preferred outpatient therapy for COVID-19 in patients at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19. It likely has similar efficacy to IV monoclonal antibodies and IV outpatient remdesivir but differences in vaccination rates and patient populations makes a direct comparison difficult. The 5-day course of Paxlovid is generally well tolerated. “Paxlovid mouth” (dysgeusia) is relatively common and is characterized by a terrible metallic or garbage-like taste in the mouth during therapy. As of July 2022, licensed pharmacists have the authority to assess patients for Paxlovid and prescribe the therapy; however, Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement has not clearly established how reimbursement of clinical services can occur. “Rebound” COVID-19 symptoms may or may not be