5 Paxlovid Side Effects You Should Know About

https://www.goodrx.com/paxlovid/known-side-effects

Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) has been a life-saver for many people with COVID-19. This antiviral medication is FDA authorized for those at high risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19. It’s considered the first-choice option for treating mild to moderate COVID-19 in this group of people.

But as with all medications, Paxlovid has some side effects. While some are common, others are more unique. Let’s take a look at five Paxlovid side effects and how to manage them.

1. Taste changes (“Paxlovid mouth”)

Loss of smell or taste is a well-known symptom of COVID-19. But this side effect is different from that. As Paxlovid has become more widely available, many people have been reporting taste changes as a side effect. This experience has been coined “Paxlovid mouth” by many news outlets. Those who experience it describe it in different ways, a couple being a bitter or metallic taste. But they all agree on one thing — it’s gross.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of many medications. While uncommon, loose stools are possible with Paxlovid. About 3% of clinical trial participants reported this side effect. But keep in mind, diarrhea is also a symptom of COVID-19. A similar number of people taking a placebo (a pill with no medication in it) also reported it.

Diarrhea with Paxlovid can typically be managed at home. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and watch for symptoms of dehydration. You may also find a bland diet sits better with you. If your diarrhea doesn’t clear up after finishing Paxlovid, reach out to your healthcare provider.

3. High blood pressure

It’s not unusual for a medication to raise blood pressure. And this can be a concern if you already have high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Around 1% of people who took Paxlovid in clinical trials reported this side effect. 

Your blood pressure should return to normal after finishing Paxlovid. But your healthcare provider may ask you to check your blood pressure at home while taking it. Let them know if your blood pressure is still high after finishing the medication.

4. Muscle aches

Muscle aches are no fun and can make it difficult to complete your usual activities. Paxlovid may cause muscle pain for some people who take it. About 1% of study participants reported this side effect during clinical trials.

Muscle aches from Paxlovid should be mild. But if you find them bothersome, over-the-counter pain relievers may help. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are two options that don’t interact with Paxlovid.

5. Liver damage

As mentioned earlier, Paxlovid contains the medication ritonavir. Ritonavir is known to cause liver damage. This side effect is more likely to happen in people who already have liver problems.

Liver damage wasn’t reported in Paxlovid’s clinical trials. But because of what experts know about ritonavir, Paxlovid is not recommended for people with severe liver problems. Make sure your healthcare provider knows if you have a history of liver issues before you start taking it.