Paxlovid Cost Without Insurance

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the demand for antiviral drugs as people try to protect themselves from the virus. Paxlovid is one such drug that has been gaining popularity due to its effectiveness in treating the virus. However, the cost of this drug may be a concern for people who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover the drug. In this article, we will explore the cost of Paxlovid without insurance.

What is Paxlovid?

Paxlovid is an antiviral drug used to treat COVID-19 in adults and children aged 12 years and above who weigh at least 40 kilograms. The drug is a combination of two medications, namely nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir is a protease inhibitor that blocks the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, while ritonavir is a booster that prolongs the effect of nirmatrelvir.

The drug’s effectiveness was demonstrated in a clinical trial that showed a 90% reduction in hospitalization and death in patients who received the drug within three days of COVID-19 symptoms’ onset. The drug is administered orally twice a day for five days.

How much does Paxlovid cost without insurance?

The cost of Paxlovid without insurance can vary depending on several factors such as the pharmacy’s location and the drug’s strength. Paxlovid comes in two strengths, namely 200mg/8mg and 600mg/24mg. The average cost of one course of treatment for a patient weighing above 40kg and above for both strengths is $5400. The cost per tablet for the 200mg/8mg tablet is around $68, while the cost per tablet for the 600mg/24mg tablet is around $204.

Are there any ways to reduce the cost of Paxlovid without insurance?

There are various ways to reduce the cost of Paxlovid without insurance. Some of these include:

1. Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)

The drug manufacturers, Pfizer and BioNTech, offer patient assistance programs that help patients who cannot afford the drug’s cost. The PAPs offer financial assistance and free drugs to eligible patients. Patients can reach out to the drug manufacturers to learn more about the available programs and how to enroll.

2. Generic versions of Paxlovid

Generic versions of Paxlovid may be available in the future, which could significantly reduce the drug’s cost. However, it may take some time before these generic versions are available in the market.

3. Negotiating with the pharmacy

Patients can negotiate with their pharmacy to get a lower price for the drug. Some pharmacies may be willing to offer discounts or work out a payment plan for patients who cannot afford the drug.

Is Paxlovid covered by insurance?

Paxlovid is relatively new, so insurance providers may not yet have included the drug in their coverage plans. However, some insurance companies may cover the drug, but patients should check with their insurance provider to determine if their plan covers the drug.

Conclusion

Paxlovid is an effective drug for treating COVID-19, but its cost may be a concern for patients who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover the drug. However, there are ways to reduce the drug’s cost, such as through patient assistance programs, negotiating with the pharmacy, or waiting for the release of generic versions of the drug. Patients should speak to their healthcare providers and explore their options to get the drug at an affordable cost.

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