Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir

Definition

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is a combination antiviral medication used to treat COVID-19. Nirmatrelvir inhibits a key viral protease, while ritonavir boosts its effectiveness by inhibiting metabolic degradation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is administered orally and should be taken with food.
2. This combination therapy is primarily prescribed for high-risk COVID-19 patients to prevent severe illness.
3. Ritonavir acts as a pharmacokinetic enhancer, prolonging the action of nirmatrelvir by inhibiting CYP3A4-mediated metabolism.
4. Common side effects include altered taste, diarrhea, and hypertension.
5. The treatment course typically lasts five days, with dosing adjustments necessary for patients with renal impairment.

Review Questions

• What role does ritonavir play in the Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir combination therapy?
• Why is Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir particularly recommended for high-risk COVID-19 patients?
• What are common side effects associated with Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir?

Related terms

Protease Inhibitor: A class of antiviral drugs that inhibit the action of proteases needed for viral replication.

CYP3A4: An enzyme in the liver responsible for metabolizing many drugs, including ritonavir.

Pharmacokinetic Enhancer: A drug that increases the efficacy of another drug by affecting its absorption or metabolism.