Guidance on prescribing Paxlovid for COVID patients,

Paxlovid is an oral antiviral drug that reduces the risk of hospitalization and death in high risk patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. The National Institute of Health recommends Paxlovid for most high risk, non-hospitalized patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. Eligibility criteria include:

● Positive COVID-19 test
● Must be 12 years old or older and weigh at least 88 pounds
● Age 65+ or have a medical condition or other factor that increases the risk for severe COVID-19
● Have mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms
● Can receive treatment within five days of symptom onset
● Are not hospitalized due to COVID-19 when treatment is initiated

The FDA has recently revised the Emergency Use Authorization for Paxlovid, allowing state licensed pharmacists to prescribe the drug to eligible patients within certain limitations. Because Paxlovid must be administered within five days, allowing pharmacists to prescribe could mean greater access to treatment for many.

“According to a recent clinical trial, there was an 89% reduction in the risk of hospitalization and death in those that took the drug, which is why at SpecialtyRx we recommend our clients prescribe Paxlovid to their residents who meet the criteria,” stated Saba Ansari, Pharm.D – VP of Clinical Services.