Paxlovid and other COVID pills near me
in Chicago, IL

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Paxlovid and molnupiravir are two novel antiviral pills licensed by the FDA for the treatment of COVID-19. Paxlovid is made by Pfizer, while molnupiravir is made by Merck. These drugs can significantly lower the risk of hospitalization and mortality in COVID-19-infected high-risk patients, according to FDA-reported clinical research results.

What is a COVID pill treatment?

COVID pill treatment, according to the FDA, is intended for people who have already been diagnosed with COVID-19. The pills are not the same as the COVID vaccine in that they do not protect against COVID infection. The pills should not be used as a substitute for vaccines, according to the FDA, although they may be especially helpful for patients who are immunocompromised or unable to be vaccinated. COVID drugs, according to the DSA, are meant to reduce the likelihood of being hospitalized owing to severe COVID symptoms.

Before you ask your doctor for a COVID pill prescription, there are some important points to understand, as noted by the FDA:

• COVID pills are only available to a limited number of people. They're for people who have modest symptoms but are at a higher risk of developing serious COVID-19-related illnesses. This includes people with underlying health concerns like heart disease or diabetes, as well as the elderly.
  Some people should avoid taking the COVID pill. Pfizer's COVID pill is licensed for those aged 12 and up, while Merck's COVID pill is just for adults. Children should not take the Merck pill since it may interfere with bone growth. The pills should not be taken by pregnant women or those who have liver or kidney disorders.
• Other drugs may interact with the pills. Before taking the COVID pill, tell your doctor about any medications you're taking. Other medications, such as heart meds, blood thinners, and HIV medications, may be affected by the pills. To keep track of any drug interactions, you'll need to work closely with your doctor.
• It's vital to get started on treatment right away. To be successful, the pills must be taken within five days of the commencement of symptoms. If you think you might have COVID, pay close attention to any symptoms and have a COVID test as soon as possible. Some of the most common COVID symptoms include cough, headache, fever, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell.

What to expect from COVID pill treatment

If you test positive for COVID and your doctor believes you'll need to go to the hospital, they'll likely issue you a prescription and tell you where to receive your drugs.
COVID treatment with Paxlovid or molnupiravir is usually very straightforward because the drugs can be taken at home. The FDA recommends that you begin taking your medication as soon as possible and that you strictly follow your doctor's recommendations. Both medications can be taken with or without food. Do not open or crush the pills; they should be swallowed whole. If you forget to take a dose, call your doctor to find out when you should resume taking it. Even if you feel better, stick to the FDA's recommendations and take all of your medications.

According to the FDA, the drugs are intended to reduce the likelihood of hospitalization. You may not feel better immediately away after taking the COVID pill, and the time of your illness may not be reduced.

Possible side effects

Both medications are said to have modest side effects, according to the FDA. Muscle aches, diarrhea, elevated blood pressure, and loss of taste are all possible Paxlovid side effects. Nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea are all possible side effects of molnupiravir.

Molnupiravir has been shown to affect fetal development. Women who may become pregnant should use a reliable method of birth control during treatment and for at least four days after finishing treatment, according to the FDA. For at least three months after therapy, males who are sexually active should take a reliable type of birth control.

What to expect after treatment

According to FDA guidelines, if you don't feel better after five days of taking your prescription or if your symptoms worsen, call your doctor immediately.

What safety measures should I continue to follow?

Stay in isolation for as long as your doctor recommends, even if you feel better. If you are at high risk, continue to wear a mask in public and maintain social distance, according to CDC guidelines and recommendations.

What scientists are still learning

The FDA will continue to evaluate COVID pill therapy for safety and efficacy, and additional innovative drugs are likely to follow.