Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) Treatment
Taking Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) for COVID-19
How to take Paxlovid
- Standard dose
Most people take 3 tablets twice a day for 5 days (2 pink tablets and 1 white tablet each time).
The pack is arranged to help you: - Yellow section = morning dose
- Blue section = evening dose
- Reduced dose (if you have certain kidney conditions)
Some people will be advised to take 2 tablets twice a day for 5 days (1 pink and 1 white tablet).
Your pharmacy will adjust the pack for you if needed, so you don’t need to worry.
- When to start
Take Paxlovid as soon as you can and within 5 days of your symptoms beginning (sometimes up to 7 days if advised by a clinician).
- Keep taking Paxlovid until you finish the course, even if you start to feel better
Possible side effects
Most people tolerate Paxlovid well. Some may notice:
These are usually mild and temporary.
If you have side effects and are worried please contact your prescriber or pharmacist or call NHS 111. If we prescribed or dispensed your Paxlovid you can give us a call on
(0114) 2727676.
Unfortunately we will not be able to answer queries from patients who were prescribed Paxlovid elsewhere.
If you would like to report side effects or find out more, you can use the
MHRA Yellow Card scheme:
When to get help
If you have any concerns about side effects, your symptoms, or how to take your medication, contact your pharmacy or phone NHS 111.
Get urgent medical help (call 999 or attend A&E) if you:
- Have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath at rest. If you have a pulse oximeter, use it, and get help if it reads below 94.
- Feel persistent chest pain or pressure
- Are confused or hard to wake
- Notice a bluish colour in your lips or face
Have a question?
Just drop us an email. Please be aware that our clinic emails can only be responded to in office hours. If you have an urgent query please phone.