Yes, you read that correctly, a pill for Covid-19. According to recent announcements from FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Chief Oscar Gutierrez, in addition to vaccines, we now have two oral medicines for the Covid-19 virus, which are known as Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, respectively. Paxlovid is an antiviral medication and Molnupiravir is an antiviral medicine.
The Food and Drug Administration of the United States published a report in November 2021 stating that taking oral medications to treat Covid-19 is approximately 89 percent effective in preventing severe symptoms from becoming mild, which could lead to hospitalization and, in the worst-case scenario, death. Since January 2022, the Philippine government has been in contact with Pfizer, the pharmaceutical company that manufactured Paxlovid, to discuss possible collaboration. In December 2021, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Molnupiravir as an emergency therapy in 31 hospitals.
We have been fighting Covid-19 for two years now and the medical field has been experimenting to provide a cure for this global pandemic crisis that we are facing including a Covid-19 pill. According to the FDA, it was difficult to cure such diseases which can make your previous chronic diseases worse.
As of today in the Philippines, we have 3,677,376 nationwide announced by the Department of Health. When an Emergency Use Authorization or EUA is signed, it opens the door for products covered by it to be utilized by the general public even while they are still in the development stage. The COVID-19 vaccinations that are now in use have also been approved by the EUA.
Providing EUAs is designed to ensure prompt access to medicines and vaccines by shortening approval processes that would otherwise take six months to a little over a month, as opposed to the current six-month standard.
Even while an EUA will allow vaccines and medications to be used by the general public, it is not the same as a certificate of product registration or an authority to market a particular product. In the wake of a spike in COVID-19 infections triggered by the highly contagious Omicron variant, the Philippines has seen a steady fall in the number of cases, with infections remaining below 1,000 for more than a week.
Things you must know about Paxlovid
This Covid 19 pill is indicated for children and adolescents aged 12 and up. There are currently ongoing clinical trials for younger children and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 17 years old. Pfizer was responsible for the development of this medication. It is likely to be less expensive than any other Covid-19 medications and to be more effective against the Omicron version. If you have server covid symptoms, you must utilize this treatment for the first five days after encountering them. During the five-day period, you must take this medication twice a day. You must have a positive covid result and/or be a high-risk individual in order to receive a prescription. diarrhea, decreased sense of taste, high or raised blood pressure, and muscle soreness are some of the side effects associated with Paxlovid. Others may have swelling of the tongue, lips, or face, as well as difficulty breathing and swallowing, and they may also develop hives.
Caution in Taking Paxlovid
When it comes to caution in taking a Covid-19 pill, it is necessary to address any allergies, kidney or liver disease, pregnancy, or intentions to have a child, nursing, or having any chronic diseases in order to prevent issues from occurring. You must also inform your healthcare providers of any medications that you are presently taking, including herbal supplements, contraceptives, and vitamins, because some medications may cause Paxlovid to cause serious adverse effects in some individuals.
How to take Paxlovid
- Take the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not break or chew on anything.
- You can take the pill either before or after you eat.
- Do not discontinue taking Paxlovid without first consulting your healthcare practitioner.
- Take the medication only once every 8 hours.
Don’t Take Paxlovid if You are…
Allergic to nirmatrelvir and ritonavir.
Taking any of the following: Alfuzosin, Pethidine, propoxyphene, Ranolazine o Amiodarone, dronedarone, flecainide, propafenone, quinidine o Colchicine o Lurasidone, pimozide, clozapine o Dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine o Lovastatin, simvastatin o Sildenafil (Revatio®) for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) o Triazolam, oral midazolam o Apalutamide o Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin o Rifampin o St. John’s Wort (hypericum perforatum)
Things you must know about Molnupiravir
Merck, a well-known pharmaceutical company in the United States, was in charge of the development of this tablet intended for use as a Covid-19 Pill. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Molnupiravir is only indicated for high-risk patients such as older adults, particularly seniors, unvaccinated individuals with immuno-deficiencies, and individuals who have chronic diseases such as diabetes. Nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness are some of the negative effects of the medication. Because of the high dosage of this medication, you must be at least 18 years old to take it. It is effective against the Omicron and Delta strains. Lactating and pregnant women should avoid using this product.
Caution in Taking Molnupiravir
It is necessary to address any allergies, kidney or liver disease, pregnancy, or intentions to have a child, nursing, or having any chronic diseases in order to prevent issues from occurring. You must also inform your healthcare providers of any medications that you are currently taking, including herbal supplements, contraceptives, and vitamins, because some medications may cause Molnupiravir to produce serious adverse effects. This includes birth control pills and vitamins.
How to take Molnupiravir
- Every twelve hours, take four capsules.
- Take the pills whole and drink two glasses of water after taking them.
- You have the option of taking the tablet with or without food.
- Make certain that you get enough sleep.
Amazing, right? Science and technology has helped us, especially the medical front liners to conquer this invisible fight against the pandemic.
As a simple reminder, vaccination is the most critical and effective method of preventing the virus from spreading. Having Covid-19 pills does not imply that you are no longer in need of vaccinations. Go to your local barangay halls or simply register at the health office in your city for assistance. Continue to be safe and healthy!
Written by Andrea Amor
