WARNING

It is possible for ritonavir and nirmatrelvir to interact with a wide range of pharmaceuticals, which may result in potentially fatal side effects. While getting nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, be sure to inform your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist of all drugs you are now taking or intend to take. Your doctor may advise against taking nirmatrelvir with ritonavir depending on the medications you are taking and the problems you are treating. Your doctor will discuss with you if using nirmatrelvir with ritonavir is beneficial for you and whether the risks of medication interactions exceed that benefit.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Adults with mild to moderate symptoms who are at risk of developing a severe illness that could necessitate hospitalization or death are treated with the drug combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 infection) brought on by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In addition, the FDA has authorized the use of ritonavir and nirmatrelvir to treat children 12 years of age and older who weigh at least 88 pounds (40 kg) with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 infection) brought on by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A group of drugs known as antivirals includes nirmatrelvir. It functions by preventing the virus’s growth inside the body. A group of drugs known as pharmacokinetic boosters includes ritonavir. It works by increasing the amount of nirmatrelvir available in the body so that the medication will have a greater effect.

How should this medicine be used?

Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir together are available as oral tablet form. For the drug to function properly, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir must be taken simultaneously. For five days, it is typically taken twice daily with or without food. Niramatrelvir and ritonavir should be taken every day at roughly the same time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any instructions on your prescription label that you do not understand, and carefully follow their instructions. Ritonavir and nirmatrelvir should be taken as prescribed. Never take it in quantities or frequencies other than those recommended by your doctor.

Avoid crushing, chewing, or splitting the tablets; instead, swallow them whole.

Even if you begin to feel better, continue taking ritonavir and nirmatrelvir until the prescription is finished. Without consulting your doctor, do not discontinue taking ritonavir and nirmatrelvir. Your infection might not be completely treated if you stop taking ritonavir and nirmatrelvir too soon or skip doses.

The manufacturer’s information for the patient can be obtained by asking your pharmacist or doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

There is limited information available about Nirmatrelvir, and it was primarily known for its potential use in combination with Ritonavir for the treatment of certain viral infections like hepatitis C. Regarding Ritonavir, besides its primary use in the treatment of HIV infections, it is also sometimes used as a “pharmacokinetic enhancer” or “booster” for other protease inhibitor medications. When used as a booster, Ritonavir can increase the blood levels and effectiveness of certain other HIV drugs, allowing for lower doses and less frequent dosing of those medications.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for precautions, it is essential to consider the following:

• Medical History: Before starting Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or previous adverse reactions to medications.
• Drug Interactions: Both Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir may interact with other medications or substances, potentially affecting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. Inform your doctor about all the drugs, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of these medications with your doctor.
• Side Effects: Be aware of possible side effects and report any unusual or severe reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Compliance: Follow the prescribed dosage and administration schedule strictly. Avoid missing doses and, if necessary, set reminders to take the medications on time.
• Regular Check-ups: Regularly visit your healthcare provider for check-ups and monitoring while on these medications.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.

Please remember that medical information may have changed since my last update, and it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional or refer to the latest medical guidelines for the most current information and precautions associated with Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary restrictions or instructions associated with Nirmatrelvir or Ritonavir. However, it’s important to note that individual medications can interact with certain foods or beverages, and it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for any specific dietary considerations while taking these medications.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir, here are some general guidelines to follow:

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nirmatrelvir is a relatively new medication, and detailed information about its side effects might not be widely available. However, based on its class as a protease inhibitor, it is possible that Nirmatrelvir may share some side effects with other drugs in the same class.

Common side effects of protease inhibitors may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Abdominal discomfort
• Changes in taste perception

Keep in mind that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone may experience these side effects. Additionally, new information and updates might have emerged after my last update, so it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional or refer to the latest medical guidelines for the most current information on Nirmatrelvir’s side effects.

As for Ritonavir, which is a well-established medication used for the treatment of HIV, common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Fatigue
• Changes in body fat distribution (lipodystrophy)
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Rash
• Headache

Ritonavir can also interact with other medications, which may lead to additional side effects or drug interactions. It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential complications.

If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Nirmatrelvir, Ritonavir, or any other medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation and guidance.

As medical information may have changed since my last update, always refer to the latest medical guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information on the side effects of Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Always store medications according to the instructions provided on the label or packaging. Pay attention to temperature recommendations, and avoid exposure to excessive heat, moisture, or direct sunlight.
• Store Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep the medications in their original containers with the cap tightly closed. This helps in identifying the medication and its expiration date accurately.
• Avoid storing medications in the bathroom, as the humidity and temperature fluctuations can affect their stability.

Disposal:

• Do not keep outdated or unused medications. Dispose of them properly to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse. You can check with your local pharmacy or healthcare facility for guidance on medication disposal programs in your area.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain, as it can contaminate the water supply.
• Some regions have specific guidelines for medication disposal. You can consult your local waste management or health department for appropriate disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Nirmatrelvir, Ritonavir, or any other medication, call emergency services immediately. You can also contact your local poison control center for assistance. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, the amount taken, and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know

• Compliance: Take Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting them.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider as scheduled for monitoring and to ensure the medication’s effectiveness.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
• Precautions: Discuss your medical history, allergies, and any underlying health conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Nirmatrelvir or Ritonavir.

As medical information may have changed since my last update, always refer to the latest medical guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information on storage, disposal, and other important considerations for Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir.