Paxlovid is an oral antivirus manufactured by Pfizer. More specifically it is a ‘Protease Inhibitor’ that will inhibit or decrease the protease enzyme interfering with the virus. Ivermectin, is a proven protease inhibitor, and is perhaps the most successful and proven protease inhibitor in use worldwide. Additionally, Ivermectin has been safely used for decades with more than 3.7 billion doses used worldwide.
Paxlovid is indicated for use in patients at high risk of severe disease when infected with the Covid-19 virus. It contains, in part, an HIV/AIDS drug, known as Ritonavir. Ritonavir has long been used to increase the levels of anti-HIV medications by strongly inhibiting the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A system. Ritonavir acts as a booster for Paxlovid, keeping it active in the patient’s body.
That being said, December of 2021, Paxlovid was granted an emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in high-risk individuals aged 12 and above, weighing at least 88 pounds after its clinical trials showed an 89% decrease in the risk of hospitalization and death. Again, Paxlovid is a dual therapy consisting of two pills of nirmatrelvir and one pill of ritonavir that is taken twice a day within 5 days of the onset of symptoms, for five days. A very serious concern with Paxlovid use in some individuals is “rebound” covid where symptoms reoccur within a few days of completing treatment.
Tamiflu is an another antiviral indicated for use in the treatment of symptoms caused by the flu virus. It reduces the severity of the symptoms and shortens the course of the disease by preventing the virus from replicating itself after it enters the cells in the body. There are currently clinical trials running to test the efficacy of Tamiflu in a combination with other medications for the treatment of Covid-19.
Tamiflu is similar to Paxlovid in that they are both antivirals. Tamiflu works to shorten the disease course.
There are other antivirals used for the management of Covid-19. These include Molnupiravir and Remdesivir which was the first antiviral approved by the FDA for use in patients hospitalized with Covid-19.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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