CDHB

Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir

ner-ma-trel-veer and ri-ton-ah-veer

What does it do?

Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir is used to treat COVID-19. It reduces the chances that you will need hospital treatment.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take nirmatrelvir and ritonavir regularly as directed with a glass of water. Swallow the tablets whole. You can take them with or without food.
You need to start taking nirmatrelvir and ritonavir within 5 days of getting COVID-19 symptoms.
Keep taking it until the course is finished, even if you start to feel better.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible and continue as directed.

Can you take other medicines?

Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir can react with many medicines, sometimes with severe results.
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking including vitamins, herbal products, or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Nirmatrelvir is a new medicine. All the possible side effects are not known at this time.

Side EffectsRecommended action

Changes in taste

Diarrhoea

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.