FROM April 1, 2023, the eligibility criteria for access to PAXLOVID™ (nirmatrelvir tablets and ritonavir tablets) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) will be expanded to include people between 60-69 years of age with mild to moderate COVID-19 with one additional risk factor for developing severe disease.
Pfizer Australia and New Zealand Medical Director, Dr Krishan Thiru, said: “As winter approaches, we anticipate a heightened impact of COVID-19 in the community, as has occurred in the previous three years. This widening of PBS eligibility criteria means many more Australians most at risk of severe disease may be able to access PAXLOVID through the PBS if they test positive for COVID-19, and take treatment at home.”
PAXLOVID is a prescription only oral medicine taken twice-daily for five days. It should be taken as soon as possible after a diagnosis of COVID-19, and within five days of symptoms appearing.
