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Oral COVID-19 treatment (PaxlovidTM)

Description

Health Canada has authorized the use of PaxlovidTM in Canada. This is the first oral treatment specifically for COVID-19. It comes in tablet form.

PaxlovidTM is intended to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms in people at risk of developing serious complications from this infection. It is estimated to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death from COVID-19.

PaxlovidTM treatment must be started within five days of the appearance of COVID-19 symptoms. It must be taken at the home of the person who has COVID-19 for five consecutive days.

General notice

PaxlovidTM does not prevent COVID-19 and does not replace vaccination against COVID-19.

Eligibility for PaxlovidTM treatment

According to the recommendations issued by the Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS), PaxlovidTM is intended for people with COVID-19 who are at high risk of complications of this infection. You could be eligible for PaxlovidTM if you are:

  • Over 18 years of age with severe immunosuppression;
  • 60 years of age or older, after an individual risk assessment taking into account age, immunity and the number of concomitant diseases or conditions that increase the level of risk of complications of COVID-19;
  • Under 60 years of age with at least one concomitant disease or condition that increases the level of risk of complications of COVID-19 and after an individual risk assessment taking into account age, immunity and the number of comorbidities;
  • Pregnant, after an individual risk assessment taking into account age, immunity, gestational age and the number of concomitant diseases or conditions that increase the level of risk of complications of COVID-19;
  • Under 18 years of age with at least one concomitant disease or condition that increases the level of risk of complications of COVID-19, after an individual risk assessment taking into account age, immunity and the number of comorbidities.

To receive PaxlovidTM treatment, these people must also:

  • not present any contraindications to taking PaxlovidTM because of their health or their concomitant medications;
  • have been symptomatic for five days or less;
  • have a confirmed COVID-19 infection with a screening test (PCR or rapid self-test available from a pharmacy or a local point of care);
  • not be hospitalized.

How to get access to PaxlovidTM

As soon COVID-19 symptoms appear, people whose condition appears to meet the criteria defined by INESSS must have a screening test to confirm a COVID-19 infection.

If they test positive, they must see a pharmacist, specialized nurse practitioner or physician.

The pharmacist, specialized nurse practitioner or physician will determine if they are eligible to receive PaxlovidTM, taking into account the recommendations issued by INESSS.

If eligible, they will be able to receive PaxlovidTM treatment free of charge at the pharmacy of their choice.

The COVID-19 Treatment sheet (PDF 108 Kb) also provides all the information.

Contraindications

Treatment with PaxlovidTM is not recommended in the following cases:

  • severe allergy to one of the ingredients in PaxlovidTM;
  • interactions with other medications being taken;
  • severe liver problem.

Additional information

Consumer information This hyperlink will open in a new window. on PaxlovidTM is available on the Government of Canada’s website.

Last update: January 11, 2024

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