🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 135 (from laksa165)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa135.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/","crawl_time":1773596952,"first_indexed_time":1741976998,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,aarp!www,\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ s443","src_root_hash":"2223325636571181335","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"What Are the Side Effects of Taking Paxlovid for COVID?","meta_descriptions":["Many have turned to the pill Paxlovid to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. Learn about the side effects of Paxlovid."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Millions of Americans have turned to the\nprescription pill Paxlovid\nto help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).   \nWhile doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with\nany medication\n. The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York.\n“But these [side effects] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.”\nPlus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of\nCOVID-19\nanyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health.\nWho Should Take Paxlovid?\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including:\nAdults age 50 and older (risk increases with age).\nPeople who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.\nPeople with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system.\nIf you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset.\nThe difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says.\nDoes Paxlovid interact with other medications?\nWhere you run into the risk of experiencing more\nside effects\n, and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including\ncommon blood pressure\nand blood-thinning medications. (See the\nfull list\non this FDA fact sheet.)\nA big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says.\nThe key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says.\nIf you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says.\nThere are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options.","attrs_markdown":"Javascript is not enabled.\n\nJavascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/#aarp-u-end-of-header)\n\n[Take control of student loan debt! Sign up for a free, live workshop on 3\/25 and speak with experts.](https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/student-loan-forgiveness-workshop-powered-by-savi-aarp-tickets-1980188362698?aff=AarpnowMarch25)\n\n[![AARP Logo Header White 139x36](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarp\/graphics\/aarp_logos\/120x30-aarp-header-logo-red.svg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-LOGO-UXDIA \"Homepage\")\n\n- [Join](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/joinnav)\n- [Renew](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/rfrenew)\n\n- - [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/ \"Membership and Benefits\")\n- - [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/ \"members edition\")\n\n[AARP Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=HelpDefaultTest12)\n\n[Register](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/register?promo=MBPHDR)\n\n[Login](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/login \"Login to AARP\")\n\n[Login](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/login \"Login to AARP\")\n\nContent starts here\n\nCLOSE ×\n\nSearch\n\nHealth\n\nAll Topics\n\nEntertainment\n\nHealth\n\nMoney\n\nPolicy & Research\n\nTravel\n\nWork\n\nMember Benefits\n\nCaregiving\n\nGames\n\nRewards\n\nVideos\n\n{\"dropDownLabel\":\"All Topics\",\"dropDownValue\":\"everywhere\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Entertainment\",\"dropDownValue\":\"entertainment\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Health\",\"dropDownValue\":\"health\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Money\",\"dropDownValue\":\"money\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Policy & Research\",\"dropDownValue\":\"research\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Travel\",\"dropDownValue\":\"travel\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Work\",\"dropDownValue\":\"work\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Member Benefits\",\"dropDownValue\":\"member benefits\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Caregiving\",\"dropDownValue\":\"caregiving\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Games\",\"dropDownValue\":\"games\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Rewards\",\"dropDownValue\":\"rewards\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Videos\",\"dropDownValue\":\"videos\"}\n\nSearch\n\nPopular Searches\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Car rental](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/carrental\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP daily Crossword Puzzle](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/daily-crossword)\n\n[Hotels with AARP discounts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/hotels\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[Life Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/life\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP Dental Insurance Plans](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/delta-dental\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/)\n\nSuggested Links\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/)   [Show me my account 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members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.\n\n[Join Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisjoin)\n\n[Renew Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisrenew)\n\nCLOSE ×\n\nSearch\n\nAll Topics\n\nAll Topics\n\nEntertainment\n\nHealth\n\nMoney\n\nPolicy & Research\n\nTravel\n\nWork\n\nMember Benefits\n\nCaregiving\n\nGames\n\nRewards\n\nVideos\n\n{\"dropDownLabel\":\"All Topics\",\"dropDownValue\":\"everywhere\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Entertainment\",\"dropDownValue\":\"entertainment\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Health\",\"dropDownValue\":\"health\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Money\",\"dropDownValue\":\"money\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Policy & Research\",\"dropDownValue\":\"research\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Travel\",\"dropDownValue\":\"travel\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Work\",\"dropDownValue\":\"work\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Member Benefits\",\"dropDownValue\":\"member benefits\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Caregiving\",\"dropDownValue\":\"caregiving\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Games\",\"dropDownValue\":\"games\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Rewards\",\"dropDownValue\":\"rewards\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Videos\",\"dropDownValue\":\"videos\"}\n\nSearch\n\nPopular Searches\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Car rental](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/carrental\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP daily Crossword Puzzle](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/daily-crossword)\n\n[Hotels with AARP discounts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/hotels\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[Life Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/life\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP Dental Insurance Plans](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/delta-dental\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/)\n\nSuggested Links\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/)   [Show me my account info](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/show-me-my-account-info)   [Change my Address](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/i-want-to-change-my-address)   [How do I contact AARP?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/contact-aarp)   [Where is my membership card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/where-is-my-membership-card)   [How do I get a digital card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/how-do-i-access-my-aarp-digital-card-via-aarp-now-app)\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Red Membership Card ](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/features\/membership\/header-search-membership-promo\/default\/anonymous\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/uxdia\/icons\/membership-card-with-shadow.png)\n\nAARP Membership — \\$15 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal\n\nGet instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.\n\n[Join Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisjoin)\n\n[Renew Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisrenew)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![the help icon]()](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=AE-HP-HDR-HELP)\n\n[Join](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/joinnav?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-MPROMO-JOIN-UXDIA-DEFAULT)\n\n[Renew](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/rfrenew?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-MPROMO-RENEW-UXDIA-DEFAULT)\n\n[AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/ \"Link to spanish homepage\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![the help icon]()](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=AE-HP-HDR-HELP)\n\n- [AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/)\n- [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/)\n- [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/)\n- [AARP Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n- [AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/)\n- [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/)\n- [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/)\n- [AARP Rewards %{points}%](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n- right\\_container\n- Health\n- Money\n- Work & Jobs\n- Advocacy\n- Social Security\n- Medicare\n- Caregiving\n- Games\n- Travel\n- More...\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/ \"link to health page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Healthy Living](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/healthy-living\/ \"link to healthy living topic page\")\n\n[Conditions & 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background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/vaccines-after-50\/ \"What to Know About Vaccines\")\n\nYour Health\n\n[What to Know About Vaccines](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/vaccines-after-50\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![An illustration of a brain palette on a pink background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/brain-health\/ \"Tools and Explainers on Brain Health\")\n\nBrain Health Resources\n\n[Tools and Explainers on Brain Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/brain-health\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a woman doing a leg unge in her living room]()](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/programOptIn?promo=RWDFIT&ref=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/earn\/fitness\/30daychallenge\/ \"30-Day Couch-to-Fit Challenge\")\n\nFitness\n\n[30-Day Couch-to-Fit Challenge](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/programOptIn?promo=RWDFIT&ref=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/earn\/fitness\/30daychallenge\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Money](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/ \"Link to money channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Scams & Fraud](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/ \"link to scams and fraud landing page\")\n\n[Personal Finance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ \"link to personal finance page\")\n\n[Taxes](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/taxes\/ \"Link to taxes landing page\")\n\n[Retirement](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/ \"Link to retirement landing page\")\n\n[Money Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/finance\/ \"AARP Money Benefits\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/tracking-map\/ \"View and Report Scams in Your Area\")\n\nScams & Fraud\n\n[View and Report Scams in Your Area](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/tracking-map\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![top view montage of brightly colored donation coin collection containers that all read, \"Please Give Generously\"]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/charitable-giving-quiz\/ \"Take the Charitable Giving Quiz\")\n\nGiving Back\n\n[Take the Charitable Giving Quiz](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/charitable-giving-quiz\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/retirement-calculator\/ \"AARP Retirement Calculator\")\n\nRetirement\n\n[AARP Retirement Calculator](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/retirement-calculator\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ways-to-save-at-the-supermarket\/ \"25 Ways to Save at the Grocery Store\")\n\nYour Money\n\n[25 Ways to Save at the Grocery Store](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ways-to-save-at-the-supermarket\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Work & Jobs](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/ \"Link to work and jobs channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Job Search](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/ \"link to job search landing page\")\n\n[Careers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/careers\/ \"link to the careers landing page\")\n\n[Small Business](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/small-business\/ \"link to small business landing page\")\n\n[Employers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/employers\/ \"Link to the employers landing page\")\n\n[Age Discrimination](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/age-discrimination\/ \"Link to the age discrimination landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/finance\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/indeed-career-services\/ \"Job Search Help from AARP and Indeed\")\n\nFlexible Work\n\n[Job Search Help from AARP and Indeed](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/indeed-career-services\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/skills-builder\/ \"Online Courses to Boost Your Career\")\n\nAARP Skills Builder\n\n[Online Courses to Boost Your Career](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/skills-builder\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/retiree-part-time-jobs\/ \"Part-Time Jobs (No Degree Required!)\")\n\nFlexible Work\n\n[Part-Time Jobs (No Degree Required!)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/retiree-part-time-jobs\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a person on a laptop screen with various icons around it]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/workjobs-hub\/en\/home?utm_medium=dotorg&utm_source=aarp&utm_campaign=workjobs-turnkey-webinar-hubpage-2024&utm_content=evergreen-top-nav&cmp=OTH-IMM-WORKJOBS-WEBINAR-HOUSE_TOPNAV \"Tips to Enhance Your Job Search\")\n\nON-DEMAND WEBINARS\n\n[Tips to Enhance Your Job Search](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/workjobs-hub\/en\/home?utm_medium=dotorg&utm_source=aarp&utm_campaign=workjobs-turnkey-webinar-hubpage-2024&utm_content=evergreen-top-nav&cmp=OTH-IMM-WORKJOBS-WEBINAR-HOUSE_TOPNAV)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Advocacy](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/ \"Link to advocacy channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/more-medicare-drug-price-negotiations-2025\/ \"Saving You RX Dollars\")\n\nDrug Prices\n\n[Saving You RX Dollars](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/more-medicare-drug-price-negotiations-2025\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) 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Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/socialsecurity-hub\/en\/home \"Navigating important Social Security decisions? We Can Help.\")\n\nWebinars\n\n[Navigating important Social Security decisions? We Can Help.](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/socialsecurity-hub\/en\/home)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![ask a a r p on a red background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/ \"Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Social Security\")\n\nTool\n\n[Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/retirement\/basics\/ \"10 Things You Need to Know About Social Security\")\n\nBasics\n\n[10 Things You Need to Know About Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/retirement\/basics\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/benefits-calculator\/ \"Social Security Benefits Calculator: Maximize Your Benefits\")\n\nTools\n\n[Social Security Benefits Calculator: Maximize Your Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/benefits-calculator\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Approaching Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/approaching-medicare\/ \"Link to approaching medicare pathway overview\")\n\n[Enrolling in Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/enrolling-medicare\/ \"link to parts of enrolling in medicare pathway overview\")\n\n[Managing Costs & Coverage](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/managing-costs-coverage\/ \"link to managing medicare costs pathway overview\")\n\n[Getting Help](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/getting-help\/ \"link to getting help with medicare series\")\n\n[Latest News](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/latest-news\/ \"link to the latest medicare news\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Ask A A R P. A I powered help from trusted A A R P sources. Illustration of a man using a laptop]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/ \"Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Medicare \")\n\nTool\n\n[Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a clipboard with a checklist and medical cross on it]()](https:\/\/navigator.aarp.org\/en_gb\/courses\/course\/17 \"Take This Course to Feel Prepared About Enrolling in Medicare \")\n\nAARP Navigator\n\n[Take This Course to Feel Prepared About Enrolling in Medicare](https:\/\/navigator.aarp.org\/en_gb\/courses\/course\/17)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a red and white illustration showing a woman in a monitor flanked by a word bubble and a calendar]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/medicare-hub\/en\/home?cmp=OTH-CSN-LEARN-MULTI-MEDICARE \"Get Answers to Medicare Questions With Our On-demand Webinars \")\n\nOn-Demand Webinars\n\n[Get Answers to Medicare Questions With Our On-demand Webinars](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/medicare-hub\/en\/home?cmp=OTH-CSN-LEARN-MULTI-MEDICARE)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Medical stethoscope and US flag on a pink background signifying advocacy]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/#medicare \"Learn How AARP is Fighting for Better Medicare\")\n\nAdvocacy\n\n[Learn How AARP is Fighting for Better Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/#medicare)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Caregiving](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/ \"Link to caregiving channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[Basics](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/basics\/ \"Link to basics laning page\")\n\n[Care at Home](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/home-care\/ \"Link to care at home landing page\")\n\n[Medical](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/medical\/ \"Link to medical landing page\")\n\n[Financial & Legal](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/ \"Link to the finance and legal landing page\")\n\n[Life Balance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/life-balance\/ \"Link to life balance landing page\")\n\n[Local](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/local\/ \"Link to the local landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/caregiving\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![person stands at a door marked with a first aid cross there are a series of many doors and the person is wondering which is the best choice]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/understanding-long-term-care-insurance\/ \"Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance\")\n\nLONG-TERM CARE\n\n[Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/understanding-long-term-care-insurance\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a map with an icon of a person helping another person with a cane navigate towards caregiving]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/care-connect\/resources\/ \"Assistance and Services in Your Area\")\n\nState Guides\n\n[Assistance and Services in Your Area](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/care-connect\/resources\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/prepare-to-care-planning-guide\/ \"How to Develop a Caregiving Plan\")\n\nPrepare to Care Guides\n\n[How to Develop a Caregiving Plan](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/prepare-to-care-planning-guide\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Close up of a hospice nurse holding the hands of one of her patients]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grief-loss-end-of-life\/ \"How to Cope With Grief, Loss\")\n\nEnd of Life\n\n[How to Cope With Grief, Loss](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grief-loss-end-of-life\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[All](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/all-games\/ \"Link to the AARP All Games landing page\")\n\n[Recently Played](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/category\/recently-played \"Link to AARP recently played games\")\n\n[Word & Trivia](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/word\/ \"Link to AARP Games Word and Trivia category landing page\")\n\n[Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/rewards-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Rewards category landing age\")\n\n[Atari® & Retro](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Atari and Retro category landing page\")\n\n[Mahjongg](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/mahjongg\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Mahjongg category landing page\")\n\n[Members Only](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/members\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Members Only category landing page\")\n\n[Staying Sharp](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/staying-sharp\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Staying Sharp category landing page\")\n\n[Solitare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/solitaire\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Solitare category landing page\")\n\n[New Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/new\/ \"Link to new games webpage\")\n\n[Strategy](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/strategy\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Strategy category landing page\")\n\n[Arcade](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/arcade\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Arcade category landing page\")\n\n[Puzzles](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/puzzles\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Puzzle category landing page\")\n\n[Card](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/card\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Card category landing page\")\n\n[Juegos](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/juegos-espanol\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Juegos category landing page\")\n\n[Daily](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/daily-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Daily category landing page\")\n\n[Game Shows](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/game-shows\/ \"Learn more about the game show\")\n\n[Multiplayer](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/multiplayer-games\/ \"Learn more about the multiplayer games\")\n\n[More About Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/more-on-games\/ \"Learn more about A A R P games\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP Right Again Trivia and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia \"Right Again! Trivia\")\n\n[Right Again! Trivia](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP Right Again Trivia Sports and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia-sports \"Right Again! Trivia – Sports\")\n\n[Right Again! Trivia – Sports](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia-sports)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Atari, Centipede, Pong, Breakout, Missile Command Asteroids]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/ \"Atari® Video Games\")\n\n[Atari® Video Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Throwback Thursday Crossword and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/throwback-thursday-crossword \"Throwback Thursday Crossword\")\n\n[Throwback Thursday Crossword](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/throwback-thursday-crossword)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/ \"Link to travel channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[Travel Tips](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/ \"Link to travel tips page\")\n\n[Vacation Ideas](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/ \"Link to vacation ideas landing page\")\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/destinations\/ \"Link to destinations landing page\")\n\n[Travel Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/travel\/ \"AARP Travel Benefits\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/affordable-off-peak-getaways\/ \"Budget-Friendly Locations\")\n\nOFF-PEAK TRAVEL\n\n[Budget-Friendly Locations](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/affordable-off-peak-getaways\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/real-id-questions\/ \"No Real ID? $45 Fee Starts Feb. 1\")\n\nNEW TSA FEE\n\n[No Real ID? \\$45 Fee Starts Feb. 1](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/real-id-questions\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/luxury-travel-retirement-budget\/ \"How to Travel on a Retirement Budget\")\n\nLUXURY TRAVEL FOR LESS\n\n[How to Travel on a Retirement Budget](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/luxury-travel-retirement-budget\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/preserve-trip-memories\/ \"Ideas to Capture Vacation Moments\")\n\nPRESERVE TRIP MEMORIES\n\n[Ideas to Capture Vacation Moments](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/preserve-trip-memories\/)\n\n- Entertainment & Style\n- Family & Relationships\n- Personal Tech\n- Home & Living\n- Auto\n- Staying Sharp\n- Podcasts\n- Videos\n- Events\n- AARP Near You\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Entertainment & Style](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/ \"Link to entertainment channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Movies](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/ \"Link to movies laning page\")\n\n[TV](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/television\/ \"Link to television landing page\")\n\n[Music](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/ \"Link to the music landing page\")\n\n[Celebrities](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/celebrities\/ \"Link to the celebrity landing page\")\n\n[Beauty & Style](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/ \"Link to beauty and style landing page\")\n\n[Books](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/books\/ \"Link to books landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/entertainment\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/winter-white-fashion-tips\/ \"Getting Winter White, Right!\")\n\nBeauty & Style\n\n[Getting Winter White, Right\\!](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/winter-white-fashion-tips\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/movie-preview-2026\/ \"2026 Movie Preview\")\n\nMovies for Grownups\n\n[2026 Movie Preview](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/movie-preview-2026\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/essential-songs-for-gen-x\/ \"Essential Songs for Gen Xers\")\n\nMUSIC\n\n[Essential Songs for Gen Xers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/essential-songs-for-gen-x\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Family & Relationships](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/ \"Link to family and relationships landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![graphic of a man and a woman with a cherry in their mouths]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/in-the-mood\/ \"Your Questions Answered\")\n\nSex & Dating\n\n[Your Questions Answered](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/in-the-mood\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grandparents\/ \"Everything You Need to Know\")\n\nGrandparenting\n\n[Everything You Need to Know](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grandparents\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/great-ways-to-bond-with-your-dog\/ \"Great Ways to Bond With Your Dog\")\n\nPets\n\n[Great Ways to Bond With Your Dog](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/great-ways-to-bond-with-your-dog\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Personal Tech](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/ \"link to personal tech landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a tablet displaying smart home controls in a living room]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/caregiving-smart-home-technology\/ \"Caregiver’s Guide to Smart Home Tech\")\n\nHome Technology\n\n[Caregiver’s Guide to Smart Home Tech](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/caregiving-smart-home-technology\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-connections\/ \"Creating Social Connections\")\n\nGet Happier\n\n[Creating Social Connections](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-connections\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a hand is touching computer signals on a blue background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/artificial-intelligence\/ \"Weighing the Perils and Positives\")\n\nPOSSIBILITIES OF AI\n\n[Weighing the Perils and Positives](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/artificial-intelligence\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Home & Living](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/ \"link to your home landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/fall-prevention-safety-tips\/ \"Tips to Prevent Dangerous Falls\")\n\nSAFE AT HOME\n\n[Tips to Prevent Dangerous Falls](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/fall-prevention-safety-tips\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/is-over-55-community-right-for-you\/ \"Is a 55+ Community Right for You?\")\n\nAGING IN PLACE\n\n[Is a 55+ Community Right for You?](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/is-over-55-community-right-for-you\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything\/ \"What to Do With Your Unwanted Stuff\")\n\nDeclutter\n\n[What to Do With Your Unwanted Stuff](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Auto](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/ \"Link to auto channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Car Buying](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/ \"Link to car buying landing page\")\n\n[Driver Safety](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/ \"Link to driver safety landing page\")\n\n[Maintenance & Safety](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-maintenance-safety\/ \"Link to maintenance and safety page\")\n\n[Trends & Technology](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/trends-technology\/ \"Link to car trends and technology landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/auto\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/new-car-forever-subscription-fees\/ \"Beware of Subscription Fees\")\n\nCAR BUYING\n\n[Beware of Subscription Fees](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/new-car-forever-subscription-fees\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![older woman and mother with locked arms walking and talking outside]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/we-need-to-talk\/ \"Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills\")\n\nWe Need To Talk\n\n[Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/we-need-to-talk\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/ \"AARP Smart Driver Course\")\n\nDriver Safety\n\n[AARP Smart Driver Course](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Staying Sharp](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/ \"Link to staying sharp website\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Assessment](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/assessment\/ \"Link to the assesment landing page\")\n\n[Challenges](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/ \"Link to challenge landing page\")\n\n[Articles](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/articles\/ \"Link to staying sharp articles landing page\")\n\n[Videos](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/videos\/ \"Link to the staying sharp videos landing page\")\n\n[Recipes](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/recipes\/ \"Link to staying sharp recipes landing page\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A woman using a tablet inside by a window]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/resilience \"Building Resilience in Difficult Times\")\n\n[Building Resilience in Difficult Times](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/resilience)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A close-up view of a stack of rocks]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/find-your-calm\/ \"Tips for Finding Your Calm\")\n\n[Tips for Finding Your Calm](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/find-your-calm\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A woman unpacking her groceries at home]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/weight-loss-after-50 \"Weight Loss After 50 Challenge\")\n\n[Weight Loss After 50 Challenge](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/weight-loss-after-50)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Podcasts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/podcasts\/ \"Link to the Podcast landing 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A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\n\n[Continue](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/) [Cancel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n\n[Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/)\n\n# What Are the Side Effects of Paxlovid?\n## Here’s what to expect when you take the prescription COVID-19 treatment\n***\nBy\n\nRachel Nania,\n\nAARP\n\n11\n\nComments\n\n[En español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/salud\/farmacos-y-suplementos\/info-2023\/efectos-secundarios-paxlovid-covid.html)\n\nPublished  December 01, 2023\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![woman holding a box of paxlovid COVID treatment](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_body_main\/container_body1\/container_body_cf\/container_image\/articlecontentfragment\/cfimage.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/drugs_supplements\/2023\/11\/1140-paxlovid-side-effects.jpg)\n\nGetty Images\n\n- [Facebook](http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/)\n- [Twitter](http:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/&related=CreateTheGood&text=What%2520Are%2520the%2520Side%2520Effects%2520of%2520Paxlovid?%2520)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/&title=What%2520Are%2520the%2520Side%2520Effects%2520of%2520Paxlovid?%2520)\n\nMillions of Americans have turned to the [prescription pill Paxlovid](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-treatment\/ \"paxlovid for covid treatment\") to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).\n\nWhile doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with [any medication](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/otc-medications-risky-after-50\/ \"risky medications after 50\"). The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York.\n\nMembers only\n\n[aarp\/about-aarp]()\n\n[Sign up for AARP's Weekly 'Webletter' The best of AARP in your inbox every week! Receive the latest money tips, scam alerts, health trends, games and more.](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/auth?promo=AWEBNWSLT&referrer=https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/subscribeFromEmail?promo=AWEBNWSLT&id=11724)\n\nMembers only\n\n“But these \\[side effects\\] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.”\n\nPlus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/coronavirus-facts\/ \"covid faq\") anyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health.\n\n#### **Who Should Take Paxlovid?**\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including:\n\n- Adults age 50 and older (risk increases with age).\n\n- People who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.\n\n- People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system.\n\nIf you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset.\n\nThe difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says.\n\n### **Does Paxlovid interact with other medications?**\nWhere you run into the risk of experiencing more [side effects](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/pills-that-raise-blood-pressure\/), and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including [common blood pressure](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/natural-blood-pressure-remedies\/ \"high blood pressure remedies\") and blood-thinning medications. (See the [full list](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/155050\/download \"paxlovid medication interaction\") on this FDA fact sheet.)\n\nA big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says.\n\nThe key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says.\n\nIf you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says.\n\nThere are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options.\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![newsletter-naw-tablet](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/health\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_tablet.jpg)\n\nAARP NEWSLETTERS\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Mujer leyendo tableta](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/health\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/container\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_desktop.png)\n\nGet the Your Health newsletter from AARP\n\n**Sign up for the latest health news, fitness and nutrition updates and more\\!**\n\n[See All Newsletters](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/newsletters\/)\n\n[Privacy Hub](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/privacy\/ \"privacy hub link\")\n\nARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT\n\n### **What about Paxlovid rebound?**\nAnother effect that has been linked to Paxlovid is a phenomenon known as rebound. This is when COVID-19 symptoms abate, only to return a few days later. (Rebound symptoms are almost always brief and mild, health experts stress.)\n\nRebound doesn’t happen to everybody who takes Paxlovid, Turner says, and in fact, research shows it can even happen to people who don’t take it.\n\nKotton says a fear of COVID rebound has kept many people from taking Paxlovid. “But for me, they’re missing the bigger picture,” she says, which is that they could get better faster, and significantly lower the likelihood that COVID symptoms turn severe.\n\nMembers only\n\n[Entertainment]()\n\n[AARP TV for Grownups TV show reviews, news and celebrity interviews](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/entertainment\/tv-for-grownups\/)\n\nMembers only\n### **Treating your side effects**\nTo avoid any potentially serious side effects from drug interactions, be sure to tell your doctor all of the medications you’re taking — including [over-the-counter supplements](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/dietary-supplement-side-effects\/ \"supplement side effects\"). (For example, St. John’s wort is included on [the list](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/155050\/download \"list of potential medical interactions with paxlovid\") of medications that interact with Paxlovid.) \n\n### Find COVID-19 Vaccines in Your State\nAARP's [53 state and territory COVID-19 vaccine guides](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-vaccine-state-guides\/ \"how and where to get the COVID vaccine in your state\") can help you find vaccines near you and provide the latest answers to common questions about costs, eligibility and availability.\n\nIf you experience the unpleasant taste in your mouth (“Paxlovid mouth,” as some people call it), try sucking on hard candies, mints or cough drops for the few days you’re taking the medication, Kotton suggests. “Anything that can give a different flavor in your mouth can sometimes be useful,” she says.\n\nAnd any muscle aches or headaches that come on can be handled with over-the-counter pain relievers, Farber says, though it’s important to check in with your doctor before taking them.\n\nAnother tip: Keep the benefits of the treatment in mind. “Every medicine that we have has its benefits and has its risks. The big benefit for Paxlovid is to prevent what is otherwise an outpatient disease from becoming bad enough to require a hospitalization,” Turner says.\n\nPlus, in addition to lowering the likelihood of hospitalization and death, Paxlovid has been [linked to lower risks for long COVID](https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamainternalmedicine\/fullarticle\/2802878 \"paxlovid long covid\"), studies show; it’s even being investigated as a potential treatment for the puzzling condition.\n\n[%{postComment}%](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/#comments_widget_id)\n\n*Rachel Nania is an award-winning health editor and writer at AARP.org, who covers a range of topics including diseases and treatments.*\n\nUnlock Access to AARP Members Edition\n\n[Join AARP to Continue](https:\/\/appsec.aarp.org\/mem\/join?campaignID=UBJFMOA23&intcmp=MEM-ONLY-ACCESS)\n\nAlready a Member? [Login](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/login?promo=MOA&intcmp=MEM-ONLY-ACCESS)\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![newsletter-naw-tablet](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/master\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_tablet.jpg)\n\nAARP NEWSLETTERS\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Mujer leyendo tableta](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/master\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container\/container\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_desktop.png)\n\nGet the Your Health newsletter from AARP\n\n**Sign up for 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coronavirus](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_moreAarp_main\/container_moreAarp\/container_moreAarp_cmp\/featuredlist\/tabItem\/new-covid-variant-hv-11.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2023\/11\/1140-hv1-new-covid-variant.jpg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/new-covid-variant-hv-1\/ \"What to Know About the HV.1 Variant \")\n\n[What to Know About the HV.1 Variant](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/new-covid-variant-hv-1\/)\n\n[The coronavirus strain is now dominant in the U.S.](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/new-covid-variant-hv-1\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a retro illustration of a red COVID-19 spike virus cell next to a blue pill symbolizing Paxlovid and other anti-viral treatments for COVID-19](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_moreAarp_main\/container_moreAarp\/container_moreAarp_cmp\/featuredlist\/tabItem\/are-paxlovid-covid-treatments-still-free2.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2023\/11\/1140-paxlovid-and-covid-spike-red.jpg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/are-paxlovid-covid-treatments-still-free\/ \"Are COVID Treatments Still Free?\")\n\n[Are COVID Treatments Still Free?](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/are-paxlovid-covid-treatments-still-free\/)\n\n[Here’s what to expect during the public-to-private transition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/are-paxlovid-covid-treatments-still-free\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![positive and negative test results randomly placed 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I had trouble breathing after the first dose, then felt better, took the second dose and had breathing issues. I called my doctor and he didn't think it was the Paxlovid but the Covid, However I felt better again and took a third dose and could not breathe. I stopped taking it. I haven't seen this listed as a side effect, but I wasn't willing to keep on with it.\n   \n   reply\n   \n   1\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n2. #### Comment by davidd906936.\n   da\n   \n   davidd906936\n   \n   December 6, 2023\n   \n   I got Covid on a Cruise in July 2022 and when I got home took PAX--it was a rough 2 weeks that first Covid, but no hospital and no side effects. For our next cruise in Jan 2023, I asked my Doctor to give me PAX to have on hand to take right away if needed. Got my second Covid on that cruise, started PAX on the cruise, was drained about 3 nights, but did not miss any activities and was fine by the time the cruise ended after 10 days. No side effects. Going to take another cruise soon and don't know whether to have more PAX on hand? What are your thoughts?\n   \n   Read more\n   \n   reply\n   \n   1 reply\n   \n   1\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n   \n   - #### Reply by j643476m.\n     j6\n     \n     j643476m\n     \n     December 7, 2023\n     \n     Reply to davidd906936\n     \n     Maybe you should stop cruising. It's known that COVID causes organ damage & increases risk of diabetes, among other issues. Is it really worth it? You didn't miss any activities. Are you sure you were no longer contagious when you exposed yourself to others on the cruise?\n     \n     reply\n     \n     4\n     \n     share\n     \n     report\n3. #### Comment by JerryB154414.\n   Je\n   \n   JerryB154414\n   \n   December 6, 2023\n   \n   No med. is safe 100%---As long is saving my life that is a big plus for me...\n   \n   reply\n   \n   3\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n4. #### Comment by jonjon8566.\n   jo\n   \n   jonjon8566\n   \n   December 6, 2023\n   \n   I was told early on that I should not take Paxlovid as I have Stage 3 Kidney disease. (I have had it, and it has been stable, for a good twenty-five years.) I did have Covid about two years ago but fortunately it was a relatively mild case and resolved by itself. Looking at the very lengthy FDA drug interaction list together with the FDA statement of various contraindications, it is abundantly clear that you should consult with your doctor before even considering taking Paxlovid.\n   \n   reply\n   \n   3\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n5. #### Comment by MichaelW373089.\n   Mi\n   \n   MichaelW373089\n   \n   December 6, 2023\n   \n   OHhhh forget to say, Covid left me with a gift for 6 weeks...Chest pains which mysteriously disappeared as they appeared. I'm fine now.\n   \n   reply\n   \n   1\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n\nLoad more comments\n\nPowered by\n\n{ \"articlePagePath\" :\"\/content\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/drugs-supplements\/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects\", \"aarpId\" : \"fdbe375da94c936b669c0c50c2f2f489\" \"customContainerId\" : \"\" \"limit\" : \"5\" \"paginationLimit\" : \"5\" \"replyLimit\" : \"2\" \"paginationReplyLimit\" : \"5\" \"sort\" : \"\" \"featuredTabActiveThreshold\" : \"5\" }\n\nBenefits Recommended For You\n\n[See All](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/ \"See All\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Couple relaxing in their living room in front of grey couch with man pointing TV remote to change the channel](https:\/\/aarp.widen.net\/content\/uo5t9ygeix\/jpeg\/DBR_TVforGrownupsStock_06092025.jpg?anchor=0%2C0&q=80&color=ffffffff&u=w1npqh) Members only Entertainment 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\"Rewards Terms and Conditions\")\n- [Copyright Information](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/about-aarp\/aarp-website-copyright-information\/?intcmp=GLOBAL-FTR-LNK-CLK-COPYRIGHT-UXDIA \"Copyright Information\")\n- [Vulnerability Disclosure Program](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/about-aarp\/vulnerability-disclosure-program\/?intcmp=GLOBAL-FTR-LNK-CLK-ACCESSIBILITY-UXDIA)\n- [Ad Choices](http:\/\/optout.aboutads.info\/ \"Ad Choices\")\n- [Your Privacy Choices](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/privacy\/?intcmp=GLOBAL-FTR-LNK-CLK-PRIVACYPOLICY-UXDIA#anchor-privacy \"DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION Your California Privacy Rights\")\n\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AARP)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/AARP)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/aarp\/)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/aarp)\n\n**0**","attrs_readable_markdown":"Millions of Americans have turned to the [prescription pill Paxlovid](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-treatment\/ \"paxlovid for covid treatment\") to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).\n\nWhile doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with [any medication](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/otc-medications-risky-after-50\/ \"risky medications after 50\"). The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York.\n\n“But these \\[side effects\\] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.”\n\nPlus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/coronavirus-facts\/ \"covid faq\") anyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health.\n\n#### **Who Should Take Paxlovid?**\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including:\n\n- Adults age 50 and older (risk increases with age).\n\n- People who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.\n\n- People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system.\n\nIf you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset.\n\nThe difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says.\n\n### **Does Paxlovid interact with other medications?**\nWhere you run into the risk of experiencing more [side effects](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/pills-that-raise-blood-pressure\/), and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including [common blood pressure](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/natural-blood-pressure-remedies\/ \"high blood pressure remedies\") and blood-thinning medications. (See the [full list](https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/155050\/download \"paxlovid medication interaction\") on this FDA fact sheet.)\n\nA big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says.\n\nThe key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says.\n\nIf you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says.\n\nThere are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options.","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/
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Meta Title	What Are the Side Effects of Taking Paxlovid for COVID?
Meta Description	Many have turned to the pill Paxlovid to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. Learn about the side effects of Paxlovid.
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Boilerpipe Text	Millions of Americans have turned to the prescription pill Paxlovid to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with any medication . The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York. “But these [side effects] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.” Plus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of COVID-19 anyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health. Who Should Take Paxlovid? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including: Adults age 50 and older (risk increases with age). People who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system. If you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset. The difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says. Does Paxlovid interact with other medications? Where you run into the risk of experiencing more side effects , and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including common blood pressure and blood-thinning medications. (See the full list on this FDA fact sheet.) A big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says. The key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says. If you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says. There are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options.
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A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply. [Continue](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/) [Cancel](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/) [Health](https://www.aarp.org/health/) # What Are the Side Effects of Paxlovid? ## Here’s what to expect when you take the prescription COVID-19 treatment * By Rachel Nania, AARP 11 Comments [En español](https://www.aarp.org/espanol/salud/farmacos-y-suplementos/info-2023/efectos-secundarios-paxlovid-covid.html) Published December 01, 2023 ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![woman holding a box of paxlovid COVID treatment](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body1/container_body_cf/container_image/articlecontentfragment/cfimage.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/drugs_supplements/2023/11/1140-paxlovid-side-effects.jpg) Getty Images - [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/) - [Twitter](http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/&related=CreateTheGood&text=What%2520Are%2520the%2520Side%2520Effects%2520of%2520Paxlovid?%2520) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/&title=What%2520Are%2520the%2520Side%2520Effects%2520of%2520Paxlovid?%2520) Millions of Americans have turned to the [prescription pill Paxlovid](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-treatment/ "paxlovid for covid treatment") to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with [any medication](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/otc-medications-risky-after-50/ "risky medications after 50"). The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York. Members only [aarp/about-aarp]() [Sign up for AARP's Weekly 'Webletter' The best of AARP in your inbox every week! Receive the latest money tips, scam alerts, health trends, games and more.](https://secure.aarp.org/applications/user/auth?promo=AWEBNWSLT&referrer=https://secure.aarp.org/applications/user/subscribeFromEmail?promo=AWEBNWSLT&id=11724) Members only “But these \[side effects\] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.” Plus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of [COVID-19](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/coronavirus-facts/ "covid faq") anyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health. #### Who Should Take Paxlovid? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including: - Adults age 50 and older (risk increases with age). - People who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. - People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system. If you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset. The difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says. ### Does Paxlovid interact with other medications? Where you run into the risk of experiencing more [side effects](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/pills-that-raise-blood-pressure/), and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including [common blood pressure](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/natural-blood-pressure-remedies/ "high blood pressure remedies") and blood-thinning medications. (See the [full list](https://www.fda.gov/media/155050/download "paxlovid medication interaction") on this FDA fact sheet.) A big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says. The key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says. If you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says. There are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options. ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![newsletter-naw-tablet](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/experience-fragments/uxdia-folder-structure/en/next-action-widgets/newsletter_naw/Newsletter_NAW/health/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container_copy/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/QA_bucket/widgetimages/newsletter_NAW_tablet.jpg) AARP NEWSLETTERS ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Mujer leyendo tableta](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/experience-fragments/uxdia-folder-structure/en/next-action-widgets/newsletter_naw/Newsletter_NAW/health/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container_copy/container/container/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png/content/dam/aarp/QA_bucket/widgetimages/newsletter_NAW_desktop.png) Get the Your Health newsletter from AARP Sign up for the latest health news, fitness and nutrition updates and more\! [See All Newsletters](https://www.aarp.org/newsletters/) [Privacy Hub](https://www.aarp.org/privacy/ "privacy hub link") ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT ### What about Paxlovid rebound? Another effect that has been linked to Paxlovid is a phenomenon known as rebound. This is when COVID-19 symptoms abate, only to return a few days later. (Rebound symptoms are almost always brief and mild, health experts stress.) Rebound doesn’t happen to everybody who takes Paxlovid, Turner says, and in fact, research shows it can even happen to people who don’t take it. Kotton says a fear of COVID rebound has kept many people from taking Paxlovid. “But for me, they’re missing the bigger picture,” she says, which is that they could get better faster, and significantly lower the likelihood that COVID symptoms turn severe. Members only [Entertainment]() [AARP TV for Grownups TV show reviews, news and celebrity interviews](https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/entertainment/tv-for-grownups/) Members only ### Treating your side effects** To avoid any potentially serious side effects from drug interactions, be sure to tell your doctor all of the medications you’re taking — including [over-the-counter supplements](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/dietary-supplement-side-effects/ "supplement side effects"). (For example, St. John’s wort is included on [the list](https://www.fda.gov/media/155050/download "list of potential medical interactions with paxlovid") of medications that interact with Paxlovid.) ### Find COVID-19 Vaccines in Your State AARP's [53 state and territory COVID-19 vaccine guides](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-vaccine-state-guides/ "how and where to get the COVID vaccine in your state") can help you find vaccines near you and provide the latest answers to common questions about costs, eligibility and availability. If you experience the unpleasant taste in your mouth (“Paxlovid mouth,” as some people call it), try sucking on hard candies, mints or cough drops for the few days you’re taking the medication, Kotton suggests. “Anything that can give a different flavor in your mouth can sometimes be useful,” she says. And any muscle aches or headaches that come on can be handled with over-the-counter pain relievers, Farber says, though it’s important to check in with your doctor before taking them. Another tip: Keep the benefits of the treatment in mind. “Every medicine that we have has its benefits and has its risks. The big benefit for Paxlovid is to prevent what is otherwise an outpatient disease from becoming bad enough to require a hospitalization,” Turner says. Plus, in addition to lowering the likelihood of hospitalization and death, Paxlovid has been [linked to lower risks for long COVID](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2802878 "paxlovid long covid"), studies show; it’s even being investigated as a potential treatment for the puzzling condition. [%{postComment}%](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/paxlovid-covid-treatment-side-effects/#comments_widget_id) Rachel Nania is an award-winning health editor and writer at AARP.org, who covers a range of topics including diseases and treatments. Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition [Join AARP to Continue](https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignID=UBJFMOA23&intcmp=MEM-ONLY-ACCESS) Already a Member? 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Cl ClaudiaB561355 December 7, 2023 I took Paxlovid and it did not work well with my asthma. I had trouble breathing after the first dose, then felt better, took the second dose and had breathing issues. I called my doctor and he didn't think it was the Paxlovid but the Covid, However I felt better again and took a third dose and could not breathe. I stopped taking it. I haven't seen this listed as a side effect, but I wasn't willing to keep on with it. reply 1 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies 2. #### Comment by davidd906936. da davidd906936 December 6, 2023 I got Covid on a Cruise in July 2022 and when I got home took PAX--it was a rough 2 weeks that first Covid, but no hospital and no side effects. For our next cruise in Jan 2023, I asked my Doctor to give me PAX to have on hand to take right away if needed. Got my second Covid on that cruise, started PAX on the cruise, was drained about 3 nights, but did not miss any activities and was fine by the time the cruise ended after 10 days. No side effects. Going to take another cruise soon and don't know whether to have more PAX on hand? What are your thoughts? Read more reply 1 reply 1 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies - #### Reply by j643476m. j6 j643476m December 7, 2023 Reply to davidd906936 Maybe you should stop cruising. It's known that COVID causes organ damage & increases risk of diabetes, among other issues. Is it really worth it? You didn't miss any activities. Are you sure you were no longer contagious when you exposed yourself to others on the cruise? reply 4 share report 3. #### Comment by JerryB154414. Je JerryB154414 December 6, 2023 No med. is safe 100%---As long is saving my life that is a big plus for me... reply 3 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies 4. #### Comment by jonjon8566. jo jonjon8566 December 6, 2023 I was told early on that I should not take Paxlovid as I have Stage 3 Kidney disease. (I have had it, and it has been stable, for a good twenty-five years.) I did have Covid about two years ago but fortunately it was a relatively mild case and resolved by itself. Looking at the very lengthy FDA drug interaction list together with the FDA statement of various contraindications, it is abundantly clear that you should consult with your doctor before even considering taking Paxlovid. reply 3 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies 5. #### Comment by MichaelW373089. Mi MichaelW373089 December 6, 2023 OHhhh forget to say, Covid left me with a gift for 6 weeks...Chest pains which mysteriously disappeared as they appeared. 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Readable Markdown	Millions of Americans have turned to the [prescription pill Paxlovid](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-treatment/ "paxlovid for covid treatment") to help keep a case of COVID-19 from progressing to a severe infection. And researchers say the oral antiviral has saved thousands of lives — as many as 1,500 each week in the U.S., according to a March estimate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While doctors say Paxlovid is well-tolerated by patients, some people can experience side effects when taking it, as is the case with [any medication](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/otc-medications-risky-after-50/ "risky medications after 50"). The most common side effects of Paxlovid include an impaired sense of taste (often a metallic taste) and diarrhea, the FDA reports. People can also experience muscle aches or nausea when taking Paxlovid, says Bruce Farber, M.D., chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York. “But these \[side effects\] don’t affect everyone,” Farber says. “There’s probably a very large percentage of people who have no trouble taking it.” Plus, when you stop taking the medication, which is a five-day course, the side effects subside. And keep in mind that many of these symptoms — change in taste, stomach upset and muscle aches — are among the ones you might see when fighting a case of [COVID-19](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/coronavirus-facts/ "covid faq") anyway, says Nicholas A. Turner, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Duke Health. #### Who Should Take Paxlovid? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 treatment is recommended for people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus, including: - Adults age 50 and older (risk increases with age). - People who are unvaccinated or are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. - People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or a weakened immune system. If you test positive for COVID-19 and fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Time is of the essence: The antivirals work best when started within five days of symptom onset. The difference is, when you’re taking Paxlovid, you’re significantly less likely to experience some of the more serious symptoms of COVID-19 that could put you in the hospital, such as difficulty breathing. “It can really make a dramatic difference, and certainly you’d rather have a metallic taste in your mouth than be sick in the hospital,” Farber says. ### Does Paxlovid interact with other medications? Where you run into the risk of experiencing more [side effects](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/pills-that-raise-blood-pressure/), and potentially serious ones, is if you’re already taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid — and several do, including [common blood pressure](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/natural-blood-pressure-remedies/ "high blood pressure remedies") and blood-thinning medications. (See the [full list](https://www.fda.gov/media/155050/download "paxlovid medication interaction") on this FDA fact sheet.) A big reason: Paxlovid, which stops the coronavirus from replicating in the body’s cells, can slow down the way your body gets rid of other medicines, Turner says. “If you cannot clear out another medicine as fast as the body might normally do, you could effectively get an overdose on one of your other medications,” he says. The key, says Camille Kotton, M.D., clinical director for transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, is to make sure your health care provider is aware of all the medications you take. “They should carefully review them for potential, even severe, drug interactions,” she says. If you are taking a medication that interacts with Paxlovid, that doesn’t preclude you from getting the treatment. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage of that drug while you’re taking the treatment, or have you temporarily stop it, Turner says. There are also other antiviral treatments for COVID infections that can be considered, too, including remdesivir, which is administered by IV, and the antiviral pill molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which health officials say can be used if the other two therapies are not good options.
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