Although COVID-19 is no longer considered a public health emergency, it remains an illness that many people contract regularly, and acquiring treatment can be expensive and difficult to navigate. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has partnered with the pharmaceutical company Pfizer to help alleviate the cost of Paxlovid, a common treatment medication that typically costs upward of $1,400, which means you can get it for free or at a discounted price. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is a drug developed by Pfizer to help fight COVID-19 infections. It works by keeping the virus from multiplying in your body. The company ran a clinical trial with over 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 and says that the drug reduced the risk of hospitalization or death by 86%.
The standard medication comes in the form of three pills that are taken orally twice daily for a total of five days. There is also a reduced dose for individuals with kidney disease. Your healthcare provider can prescribe the dosage and pack that is best for you.
How to Get Paxlovid
You first need to get a prescription for Paxlovid from your doctor. Once you have a prescription, you can sign up for the free or reduced-cost medication option through the Paxcess website, or by calling 1-877-219-7225. You’ll need to provide some personal information such as your name, date of birth, and address. If you need assistance filling out the information, a local pharmacist should be able to help you.
Can You Get Paxlovid if You’re Uninsured?
Yes. The Paxcess program allows individuals without insurance, as well as those covered by Medicaid or Medicare, to get Paxlovid for free.
There might be a small cost if you have health insurance through a commercial provider, but it’s worth signing up through Paxcess, as it could help drastically reduce the cost of Paxlovid.
