Get a Paxlovid
Prescription Online

Get a new Paxlovid prescription or refill your medication online.

Get a Prescription

Available in 50 states. No insurance needed.

On-demand
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Prescriptions
as needed
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Consult with a clinician in 15 minutes,
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How to get a Paxlovid prescription online?
1

Download the DrHouse app. Set up your free account in a minute.

2

Start a visit with an online doctor. Wait time is less than 15 minutes.

3

Get an Rx from your preferred pharmacy. Pick up an Rx nearby or get it delivered to you.

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How much does a visit to get a Paxlovid prescription cost?

One-Time
Physician Visit
One-time visit with a physician for diagnosis, treatment, Rx, labs, referrals, and doctor’s notes.
$0-129
Copay or $129 without insurance.
24/7 virtual visits
See the first available physician, or schedule a visit with a physician you like.
Live customer support
Chat with our customer support whenever necessary. They are here for you 24/7.
Get a real doctor’s note
Get a doctor’s excuse and/or clearance for your school or work if needed.
100% treatment guarantee
You can request a refund after your visit if we are unable to provide care.
Having a visit does not guarantee a medication will be ordered or refilled. It is clinicians’ professional decision. It is prohibited by law to prescribe or refill controlled substances via virtual visits. Your provider may recommend follow-up care, including additional services that may not be included in visit price.

See why people turn to DrHouse...

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Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir)

Paxlovid, an antiviral medication developed by Pfizer, has emerged as a pivotal tool in the management of COVID-19. Authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Paxlovid is specifically designed to treat mild-to-moderate coronavirus cases in patients who are at high risk of progressing to severe conditions, including hospitalization or death.

Mechanism of action

Paxlovid works by targeting and inhibiting the SARS-CoV-2-3CL protease, an enzyme critical for the virus’s replication process. By interfering with this enzyme, Paxlovid effectively halts the virus’s ability to multiply within the body, aiding in the reduction of viral load and alleviating the severity of the disease. This mechanism not only helps in speeding up recovery times but also significantly decreases the likelihood of severe outcomes.

Eligibility and administration

Eligibility for Paxlovid treatment is typically determined based on CDC guidelines, which recommend this medication for individuals who are at increased risk of developing severe COVID-19. This includes older adults and those with certain underlying medical conditions. Paxlovid is most effective when administered within the first five days of symptom onset, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment initiation.

The treatment regimen consists of a series of pills taken over five days. Each dose of Paxlovid includes two different pills: nirmatrelvir, which inhibits the virus’s protease enzyme, and ritonavir, which helps boost the levels and effectiveness of nirmatrelvir by slowing its breakdown in the body.

Effectiveness

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Paxlovid significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization or death in patients with COVID-19 who are at high risk of severe disease. The results are particularly striking, showing a reduction in these outcomes by as much as 89% when treatment is started within three days of symptom onset. These findings underscore Paxlovid’s role as a highly effective means of combating COVID-19 in at-risk populations.

Paxlovid side effects

While Paxlovid is a significant medical breakthrough in the treatment of COVID-19, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects that patients should be aware of. Understanding these side effects is crucial for managing expectations and for immediate communication with healthcare providers if adverse reactions occur.

These side effects are usually mild and often resolve without intervention:

  • Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
  • Headache: Experiencing mild to moderate pain in the head.
  • Muscle aches: General body aches or muscle pain.
  • Gastrointestinal issues: Includes diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Dysgeusia: A distorted sense of taste, often described as metallic or bitter.

These occur less frequently but are generally still manageable:

  • Increased blood pressure: Temporary increases in blood pressure.
  • Fever: Mild to moderate increase in body temperature.
  • Chills: Feelings of coldness accompanied by shivering.
  • Dizziness: A sensation of spinning or losing one’s balance.
  • Rash: Skin changes, including mild redness or irritation.

These side effects are rare but require immediate medical consultation:

  • Allergic reactions: Symptoms can include severe rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), and difficulty breathing.
  • Liver toxicity: Symptoms might include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
  • Severe or persistent vomiting and diarrhea: Leading to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
  • Heart rate irregularities: Unusual heartbeat patterns that could feel like pounding, fluttering, or accelerated heart rate.
  • Significant mood changes: Experiencing severe mood swings, confusion, or other changes in mental status.

Drug Interactions

One of the more complex aspects of Paxlovid treatment is its potential interaction with other medications. Paxlovid includes ritonavir, which is known to boost the effect of nirmatrelvir but also affects the metabolism of many other drugs.

This can lead to increased levels of other medications in the body, potentially causing toxicity or increased side effects. It is crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid harmful interactions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do you need a prescription for Paxlovid?

Yes, a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is necessary to obtain Paxlovid treatment.

Is there an age restriction for Paxlovid treatment?

Paxlovid is authorized for use in patients 12 years of age or older who weigh at least 88 pounds (40kg).

Can Paxlovid be taken with other COVID-19 treatments?

Paxlovid has not been studied in combination with other COVID-19 treatments and should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider.

Can you get an online prescription for Paxlovid?

Yes with DrHouse, you can get an online consultation with a licensed healthcare provider who can provide a prescription for Paxlovid if appropriate.

For more detailed information about Paxlovid, you can refer to the following sources:

Content on the DrHouse website is written by our medical content team and reviewed by qualified MDs, PhDs, NPs, and PharmDs. We follow strict content creation guidelines to ensure accurate medical information. However, this content is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For more information read our medical disclaimer.

Always consult with your physician or other qualified health providers about medical concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on what you read on this website.

If you are experiencing high fever (>103F/39.4C), shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, abnormal bruising, abnormal bleeding, extreme fatigue, dizziness, new weakness or paralysis, difficulty with speech, confusion, extreme pain in any body part, or inability to remain hydrated or keep down fluids or feel you may have any other life-threatening condition, please go to the emergency department or call 911 immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

  • Yes, you can get a new prescription or refill an existing one online through DrHouse. You just need to start a consultation with one of our licensed providers and they will be able to assess your needs and provide you with a prescription if necessary.

    Please note that the final decision always rests with the doctor based on their professional judgment and your health needs.

  • There are certain medications that cannot be prescribed online by DrHouse physicians due to safety reasons. These include controlled substances, such as opioids and other narcotics, as well as drugs with a high potential for abuse or dependence. DrHouse physicians also don’t prescribe Gabapentin, medical marijuana, muscle relaxants, and HRT medications.

  • With DrHouse getting a new prescription or a refill for your current Rx is a straightforward and quick process. All you need to do is follow a few easy steps:

    • Download the DrHouse telehealth app on your mobile device.
    • Create an account by providing basic information and medical history.
    • Start an on-demand virtual video consultation with one of our licensed physicians.
    • Discuss your medical needs and concerns with one of our physicians.
    • A doctor will review your medical history, symptoms, and current medications (if any) to determine if an online prescription is appropriate for you.
    • If a physician approves, they will electronically send a new prescription or refill request to the pharmacy of your choice.
    • Pick up your medication from the pharmacy.

    DrHouse makes it easy for you to get an online prescription from the comfort of your own home. No more waiting in line at the doctor’s office or pharmacy, and no need to take time off work to see a doctor. Our telehealth platform allows you to access quality medical care from anywhere with an internet connection.

    For more information about how our telehealth platform works visit our “How DrHouse Works” page.

  • During your virtual consultation with a DrHouse physician, you will have the opportunity to discuss your medical needs and concerns.

    The consultation will consist of a video call where a physician will assess your medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms and any other relevant information. This is to ensure that a physician has all the necessary information to make an informed decision about your prescription.

    You can also ask any questions or clarify any doubts you may have about your condition or medication. Our physicians are happy to address any concerns you may have.

    Once a physician has assessed your needs, they will determine if and what type of prescription is appropriate for you. If a new prescription or refill is approved, a doctor will send it electronically to your chosen pharmacy.

  • With our on-demand telehealth service, you have the opportunity to see the first available doctor in as little as 10 to 15 minutes. However, the exact consult time will depend on the complexity of your case and the thoroughness required by the healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

  • Absolutely, it is safe to get an online prescription from DrHouse. We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and privacy.

    All our providers are highly qualified US-based physicians and often affiliated with major hospitals. They are board-certified and from the top U.S. medical schools with an average of 20 years of experience.

    We strictly adhere to HIPAA regulations, ensuring your personal and medical information is kept secure and confidential. Also, we comply with all applicable state and federal laws related to telehealth and the prescribing of medications.

    Therefore, you can rest assured knowing that your safety and privacy are our top priorities when you use DrHouse’s services.

  • DrHouse strives to provide accessible and affordable telehealth services. DrHouse urgent care, primary care, and specialist visits are $129 or your copay. This includes everything from your initial consultation through to the prescription of your medication.

    The cost of a doctor’s visit may be covered fully by your insurance. A typical copay is around $25. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage for telehealth services.

    To learn more about how much DrHouse costs, visit our pricing page

  • Yes, DrHouse accepts most major insurances, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and Medicare. The extent of coverage may vary depending on your individual plan.

  • Our physicians are able to prescribe up to a 90-day prescription without labs for any previously prescribed medication if it’s medically appropriate and is not classified as a controlled substance.

    DrHouse physicians also don’t prescribe Gabapentin, medical marijuana, muscle relaxants, and HRT medications.

    DrHouse physicians use their medical judgment to determine whether to prescribe and the duration.

    In certain cases, the prescription may be limited to 30 days or less. There also may be a 12-month cap for some prescriptions without labs. For medications requiring annual monitoring (such as blood work or imaging), the maximum prescription limit is 90 days within a year without labs.

    DrHouse physicians can refer patients to labs for longer prescription periods or refills.