Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir) is an oral antiviral medication authorized for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in certain pediatric patients. It is specifically designed to reduce the risk of hospitalization and severe disease progression when initiated early after symptom onset. This medication is not a substitute for vaccination but serves as an important therapeutic option for eligible children at high risk of complications. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine if Paxlovid is appropriate for your child.

Features

• Contains nirmatrelvir and ritonavir as active ingredients
• Administered orally as tablets
• Authorized under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for pediatric use in specific age and weight groups
• Packaged in dose-compliant blister packs
• Requires prescription and medical supervision

Benefits

• Reduces risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization and death in high-risk pediatric patients
• Helps alleviate symptoms faster when taken early in the course of illness
• Minimizes viral load, potentially decreasing transmission
• Offers an oral, at-home treatment option for eligible children
• Supported by clinical trial data in adolescents

Common use

Paxlovid is used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in pediatric patients 12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kg (88 lbs), who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death. It is most effective when started within 5 days of symptom onset and is not authorized for use as pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage for pediatric patients (12 years and older, ≥40 kg) is nirmatrelvir 300 mg (two 150 mg tablets) with ritonavir 100 mg (one 100 mg tablet) taken together orally twice daily for 5 days. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, broken, or crushed. Paxlovid can be taken with or without food. If your child experiences vomiting shortly after taking a dose, consult a healthcare provider about whether to repeat the dose.

Precautions

• Not authorized for use in children under 12 years of age or those weighing less than 40 kg
• Should not be used in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment
• May cause hypersensitivity reactions; discontinue use if signs occur
• Not a substitute for COVID-19 vaccination
• Use with caution in patients with known allergies to any component
• Monitor for potential drug interactions

Contraindications

Paxlovid is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to nirmatrelvir, ritonavir, or any of its components. It is also contraindicated with drugs that are highly dependent on CYP3A for clearance and for which elevated concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening reactions, including but not limited to: alfuzosin, colchicine (in patients with renal or hepatic impairment), lovastatin, simvastatin, sildenafil (for pulmonary arterial hypertension), and triazolam.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include: altered sense of taste, diarrhea, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hypertension. Less common but serious side effects may include: hypersensitivity reactions, liver toxicity, and resistance to HIV medications in those with uncontrolled or undiagnosed HIV infection. Most side effects are mild to moderate in severity.

Drug interaction

Paxlovid is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and may increase plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by CYP3A. Concomitant use with the following is contraindicated: certain antipsychotics, ergot derivatives, sedative/hypnotics, antiarrhythmics, and others. Review all medications—including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products—with a healthcare provider before starting Paxlovid.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed within 8 hours of the time it is usually taken, the missed dose should be taken as soon as possible, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. If the missed dose is not taken within 8 hours, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for overdose with Paxlovid. In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or healthcare provider immediately. Treatment should consist of general supportive measures, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of clinical status.

Storage

Store Paxlovid at room temperature (20°C to 25°C/68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container and protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date.

Disclaimer

Paxlovid is authorized for emergency use by the FDA under an EUA for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in certain pediatric patients. This authorization is temporary and may be revoked. It is not an FDA-approved product. Talk to a healthcare provider about benefits and risks.

Reviews

“Paxlovid helped my teenager recover from COVID-19 within days. We noticed symptom improvement after just two doses.” — Parent, Ohio
“Our pediatrician recommended Paxlovid due to our child’s asthma. It prevented hospitalization and we’re grateful for this option.” — Caregiver, Texas
“Easy to administer and well-tolerated. My child only experienced a temporary metallic taste.” — Mother, California