New JAMA ARTICLE:
#Paxlovid for #COVID - Here’s What the Latest Research Says
Rita Rubin, MA
JAMA. Published online January 31, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.28254
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2814697
In the US, 4 treatments are available for people with mild to moderate #COVID19 who are at high risk of progression to severe disease
- nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (Paxlovid, usually preferred)
- The #antiviral #remdesivir (Veklury) is recommended for patients who can’t take nirmatrelvir-ritonavir
- For those who can’t access either of those treatments or have a contraindication to them, the antiviral pill #molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which wasn’t as effective in clinical trials as the other 2 antivirals above
- COVID-19 convalescent plasma with high titers of anti–#SarsCoV2 antibodies
SARS-CoV-2 rebound can occur with or without antiviral treatment. Paxlovid suppresses viral load while taking it. Virus found in swabs after Paxlovid treatment has ended would have been there if no treatment occurred. Treatment for 10 days is being studied to keep viral levels low and prevent rebound.
A recent retrospective study by researchers at the University of Hong Kong suggested that the sooner treatment begins, the better.
Antiviral treatment in the acute phase may reduce chances of #LongCovid.
The Paxlovid drug box says it may cause liver damage.
My questions to you:
Should Paxlovid be taken for 10 DAYS STRAIGHT (vs 5) in the acute phase of #Sars2 for all high risk patients who want the best outcome?
What may warrant taking a 10 day dose - inherent Covid risk of patient, symptom progression, symptoms at day 5, desire to be non-infectious, desire to reduce risk of Long Covid?
Would taking Paxlovid for 10 days vs 5 increase the risk of permanent liver damage?
