Paxlovid Side effects: Is It Safe To Take it.

As we know, the coronavirus has destroyed many lives and families. Additionally, it brings a wave of sadness, sorrow, and suffering. However, scientists never take a backstep to amaze the common public with their work. Therefore, a new medicine has been launched recently to decrease the effects of coronavirus. Before diving deep into the Paxlovid Side effects, also look at what this medicine is. 

What is Paxlovid?

Pfizer recently developed this Paxlovid to reduce the chances of hospitalization. It is an antiviral pill to reduce the effect of the virus on an individual. This medicine is permitted for emergency use authorization and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The study showed that it reduces almost 89% of hospitalization by lessening the signs and symptoms of coronavirus. However, before taking any medicine, you should first know the side effects of Paxlovid. 

What are the common Paxlovid side effects?

Although the pill is quite safe to use, everything has side effects. Here is a list that you should know when to act immediately after developing any side effects are: 

• Hives
• Breathing problems
• Swelling in face, mouth, and lips
• Throat soreness
• Hardness
• Skin rashes
• Taste blindness
• Increased blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Irritation
• Dizziness
• GI irritation

Let's look at some signs and symptoms with closed eyes that may occur as Paxlovid side effects:.  Also, Read Can Constipation Cause Nausea?

Taste Changes or Paxlovid Mouth -

Recently, a news outlet called Paxlovid's Mouth where most people reported the taste changes. It is usually a bitter or metallic taste noted by the people. Avoiding these side effects is a better way to suck mints and flavored candies. 

High Blood Pressure- -

Almost 1% of people reported blood pressure at higher ranges during the course. However, bp gets resolved automatically after the completion of the course. But it is recommended to note down the blood pressure at home. 

Diarrhea -

It is true because one of the side effects of covid-19 is diarrhea. But the report suggested that almost three percent of people had loose stools. Therefore, it is better to hydrate yourself and drink plenty of water. Watch for signs of dehydration and reach a healthcare provider in no time.  Also, Read What To Eat When You Have a Diarrhea?

Muscle Aches -

Although mild muscle pain is a side effect of taking medicine, it is troublesome for people to do normal activities. Henceforth, taking analgesics to avoid pain is good, for instance, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. 

Liver Damage -

The major side effect of this disease is liver damage. Report any signs and symptoms that occur related to the liver and report immediately. 

Here is a list of adverse effects of Paxlovid you should immediately report to the doctor.

• Loss of appetite
• Hypersensitivity
• Yellowing of skin
• Whites of eyes
• Jaundice
• Dark colored urine
• Pale-colored stool
• Itchy skin
• Abdominal pain
• Liver problem
• Frequent vomiting 

Contraindication - 

• The patient on dialysis needs to be cut from this drug because it severely affects the renal system. 

Also, Read What is the Difference Between Chikungunya and Zika?

How does Paxlovid work on your body?

Well, there are a lot of things that you must know about this beneficial pill. First of all, everyone knows that it inactivates the virus.  The three-pill dose contains mainly two separate drugs called 

• Nirmatrelvir
• Ritonavir

The function of nirmatrelvir is to inhibit the enzyme of the covid virus. As a result, it stops the growth of infection. The other medicine, ritonavir, heightens the level of antiviral medication. 

What do I need to tell my doctor to avoid side effects associated with paxlovid?

It is mandatory to give a complete history of your medication and the past diagnosis. For example, if you are taking any medications related to the kidney. So you have to tell your doctor that you have this particular disease. There are some lists you need to tell your doctor. 

• Tell your doctor about allergies to avoid adverse side effects due to medicine.
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Affected by HIV/ AIDS

Also, Read HIV Symptoms in Men and Their Prevention. A few things need to be done to avoid unnecessary consequences. 

• A person first needs to be self-isolated to avoid other infectious diseases.
• Wear a mask wherever you are to protect yourself and also others. 
• Social distancing is a must-rule for every individual
• Maintain hand hygiene to cut the chain of infection. 

How can you take this medication? 

Most people get confused about how to take this medicine properly. Here are some steps which everyone should follow until and unless any special doctor has advised you. 

• You can take this pill by mouth
• It doesn't matter if you take medicine with food or without food. 
• You can follow once in the morning and once in ing routine for five days. 
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water. However, do not chew, break or crush the medicine. 

Drug Interaction with other medicines - 

Many drugs interact with Paxlovid. Let's look at some points that you need to remember. 

• You must notify your doctor before starting the treatment if you are on an anti-rejection drug. 
• It also shows drug interaction with arrhythmias medicines
• It also hinders the metabolism of anticoagulants and blood thinners.
• Also, tell your doctor about your cholesterol medicines. 

Here is a list of medicines you should not combine with Paxlovid to avoid any side effects :

• Alfuzosin
• Amiodarone
• Midazolam
• Warfarin
• Fentanyl
• Simvastatin
• Lovastatin
• Phenytoin

Frequently Asked Questions -

Outlook -

Although Paxlovid has various side effects, it shows an effect to cut down the severe symptoms and decreases the rate of hospitalization. As far as we can see, it is a good achievement to decrease the burden on the people. However, it is significant to know about all these things mentioned above to reduce the chances of interactions. If your side effects are not settled, book an appointment with a doctor to discuss and get treated better.