Paxlovid Price Without Insurance: How Much Does It Cost?

Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s Paxlovid for the treatment of COVID-19. This drug has been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death caused by the virus. However, many people are concerned about the cost of Paxlovid, especially if they do not have health insurance. In this article, we will explore how much Paxlovid costs without insurance and answer some frequently asked questions about this drug.

What is Paxlovid?

Paxlovid is a combination of two drugs, ritonavir and nirmatrelvir, that are taken together to treat COVID-19. These drugs work by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme that the virus needs to replicate. This can reduce the amount of virus in the body, which can help to prevent severe symptoms and hospitalization.

How Much Does Paxlovid Cost Without Insurance?

The price of Paxlovid without insurance is $530 per course of treatment. This includes a total of 28 pills, which are taken twice a day for five days. This cost can be a significant burden for many people, especially those who are already struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Are There Any Financial Assistance Programs Available?

Pfizer has announced that it will provide financial assistance to eligible patients who do not have insurance or who have insurance that does not cover the cost of Paxlovid. This assistance will be provided through the company’s patient assistance program, which can provide free medication or discounted medication based on a patient’s income and other factors. Eligible patients can apply for this assistance by calling 1-844-989-PAXLOVID (1-844-989-7295).

Can I Get Paxlovid Through Medicaid or Medicare?

Medicaid and Medicare may cover the cost of Paxlovid for eligible patients. However, the coverage may vary depending on the state and the specific plan. Patients who have questions about their coverage should contact their insurance provider or a healthcare professional.

Are There Any Generic Versions of Paxlovid?

At this time, there are no generic versions of Paxlovid available. Pfizer has exclusive rights to manufacture and sell this drug until the patent expires, which is expected to happen in 2039.

Conclusion

Paxlovid can be an effective treatment for COVID-19, but the cost can be a significant burden for many people. It is important to explore all options for financial assistance, including Pfizer’s patient assistance program and Medicaid or Medicare coverage. Patients should also talk to their healthcare professional about alternative treatments and strategies for reducing their risk of contracting the virus.

Term
Definition
COVID-19
A respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus
Emergency use authorization
An expedited process for approving drugs and vaccines during public health emergencies
Pfizer
A pharmaceutical company that developed Paxlovid
Ritonavir and nirmatrelvir
The two drugs that make up Paxlovid

FAQ

What Is the Recommended Dosage of Paxlovid?

The recommended dosage of Paxlovid is two pills of ritonavir and nirmatrelvir twice a day for five days. This is a total of 28 pills per course of treatment.

What Are the Side Effects of Paxlovid?

The most common side effects of Paxlovid are headache, fatigue, and diarrhea. Less common side effects include elevated liver enzymes and allergic reactions. Patients should talk to their healthcare professional if they experience any side effects.

Can Paxlovid Be Used to Prevent COVID-19?

No, Paxlovid is only approved for the treatment of COVID-19. It is not recommended for use as a preventative measure.

How Effective Is Paxlovid?

The effectiveness of Paxlovid in reducing the risk of hospitalization and death caused by COVID-19 has been demonstrated in clinical trials. However, like all drugs, the effectiveness may vary depending on the individual.

Is Paxlovid Available in Other Countries?

At this time, Paxlovid has only been approved for emergency use in the United States. It is not yet available in other countries.