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Update: nirmatrelvir with ritonavir tablets (Paxlovid)


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Update: nirmatrelvir with ritonavir tablets (Paxlovid)


From 1 September 2025 there were access criteria changes for funded COVID-19 antivirals (nirmatrelvir with ritonavir tablets (Paxlovid) and remdesivir injection (Veklury)) These changes can be seen on our website Pharmac webpage Covid-19 antivirals


Further changes for prescribers to note:


Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) was previously contraindicated in patients with an eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 but now can be considered in this group in some situations. The Paxlovid Medicine datasheet was updated in September 2025, to include dosing for this group.


Please remember to endorse prescriptions for nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) with the following:


  • Endorsement to confirm that the patient meets the access criteria for funded treatment.  

  • Date of symptom onset.

  • eGFR result if known renal impairment.

  • Include details of any changes made due to potential medicine interactions, so the pharmacist can reinforce the changes to the patient.

  • Your contact number (for pharmacist use if necessary).


BPAC has developed comprehensive guidance to support health care professionals assess whether someone is at high risk of hospitalisation or death from COVID-19, this can be found on their website  BPAC article - COVID-19 antivirals: Eligibility and prescribing guidance


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Please share this information with your colleagues and within your networks.


Questions:


If you have any queries, please contact us at enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz

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Ngā mihi

 

David Hughes

Chief Medical Officer | Director Advice & Assessment

________________________________________________________________________________

 

Pharmac | Te Pātaka Whaioranga | PO Box 10 254 | Level 9, 40 Mercer Street, Wellington

DDI: +64 21 962 317 | P: +64 4 460 4990 |  www.pharmac.govt.nz

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