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If you’ve recently tested positive for COVID‑19 and are at higher risk for severe illness, Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir) may help reduce the risk of hospitalization or death, especially when started within 5 days of symptom onset. In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What Paxlovid is and how it works
- Why you need a prescription
- How to get a Paxlovid prescription online
- Which telehealth platforms offer access, including Klarity Health
- What to do if your healthcare provider won’t prescribe it
- How to discuss Paxlovid with a healthcare provider
- Frequently asked questions
Looking to act quickly? Book a virtual appointment with Klarity Health to get started today.
Get a Paxlovid prescription online—if eligible
Providers on Klarity Health assess your COVID-19 symptoms and risk factors, and may prescribe Paxlovid if clinically appropriate.
What is Paxlovid, and how does it work?
Paxlovid is an oral antiviral treatment that combines nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir blocks a viral enzyme that the coronavirus needs to replicate, while ritonavir helps increase nirmatrelvir levels in the body by slowing its breakdown.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first authorized Paxlovid under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) in December 2021. On May 25, 2023, it received full FDA approval for adults at high risk of severe COVID-19. The EUA still applies for patients ages 12 and up, weighing at least 40 kilograms (kg).
Clinical trials (EPIC-HR) showed Paxlovid reduced the risk of hospitalization or death by approximately 86% to 89% in high-risk, unvaccinated adults. Real-world data show more modest benefits (about 50% to 60%) in vaccinated or lower-risk individuals.
Does Paxlovid require a prescription?
Yes, Paxlovid is a prescription-only medication in the U.S. It must be prescribed by a licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), or physician assistant (PA).
As of July 2022, under revised FDA EUA guidelines, state-licensed pharmacists can also prescribe Paxlovid if they have access to the patient’s relevant medical history (within the past 12 months), including kidney and liver function and a current medication list. If these requirements aren’t met, the pharmacist must refer the patient to a medical provider.
Can you get a Paxlovid prescription online?
Yes. Licensed telehealth providers can assess your eligibility during a virtual visit, typically via video or phone, and prescribe Paxlovid if appropriate. Prescriptions can be sent to a local pharmacy or arranged for home delivery.
Programs like the federal Test-to-Treat initiative and the National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s Home Test to Treat program also offer virtual access to Paxlovid, often without the need for an in-person visit.
How to get a Paxlovid prescription online
1. Take a COVID-19 test right away
If you have symptoms or were recently exposed, take an FDA-authorized COVID test, either polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or rapid antigen. While the FDA doesn’t require a positive test for Paxlovid eligibility, many providers ask for test confirmation to guide treatment.
2. Book a telehealth appointment within 5 days
Paxlovid must be started within 5 days of symptom onset. Platforms like Klarity Health can connect you with licensed providers for same-day evaluations. Some states also offer free telehealth services.
3. What to expect during your virtual visit
- Symptom and timeline confirmation: The provider will verify your symptoms and ensure you’re within the treatment window.
- Eligibility review: Paxlovid is authorized for individuals age 12 and older, at or over 40 kg, and at high risk of severe COVID, such as those with diabetes, obesity, heart conditions, or weakened immune systems.
- Medication screening: Ritonavir interacts with many medications, including blood thinners and statins. Be prepared to share all prescriptions and supplements.
- Kidney and liver assessment: Paxlovid isn’t recommended for people with severe kidney or liver disease. Those with moderate kidney impairment may need a dose adjustment.
Dosing guidelines:
- Standard: 300 milligrams (mg) nirmatrelvir and 100 mg ritonavir, twice daily
- Adjusted (moderate renal impairment): 150 mg nirmatrelvir and 100 mg ritonavir, twice daily
4. Receive and fill your prescription
Once prescribed, your Paxlovid prescription can be sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy. Many telehealth platforms offer same-day pickup or delivery.
5. Start treatment immediately
Begin Paxlovid as soon as possible, ideally the same day you receive it. Complete the full 5-day course for best results.
Top telehealth platforms for Paxlovid prescriptions
| Platform | Telehealth visit cost | Paxlovid eligibility assessment | Delivery or pharmacy pickup | Insurance accepted | Speed and availability |
| Klarity Health | $59 to $149 or covered through insurance | Full risk‑factor and medication review | Direct e‑prescription | Accepted nationwide | Rapid same-day availability |
| PlushCare | About $90 and up for visit fee | Yes, via online consultation | E-prescription to the pharmacy | Yes | Same-day prescription if eligible |
| Teladoc | About $75 to $100 | Yes, includes an eligibility check | E-prescription | Yes | Nationwide availability |
| Doctor on Demand | About $79 per visit | Yes, confirm test and risk | E-prescription | Yes | Fast consults, video/phone |
| Walgreens Virtual | About $33 to $75 | Yes, via virtual clinician | In-store pickup or delivery | Yes | Available in select states |
| Call-On-Doc | $39.99 flat fee | Yes, online urgent care consultation | E-prescription to the pharmacy | Mixed | 15‑minute visits, pharmacy support |
Other ways to get a Paxlovid prescription
- Test-to-Treat sites: Federally designated pharmacies or clinics that offer testing and treatment in 1 stop. Testing positive and immediate eligibility can lead to on‑site dispensing.
- State‑licensed pharmacists: In many states, pharmacists can prescribe Paxlovid if they have access to relevant medical information and check interaction risks (under EUA authorization).
- Urgent care or primary care clinic: In-person visits can lead to a prescription if criteria are met, but it may take longer than telehealth.
What if my provider won’t prescribe Paxlovid?
If your provider declines to prescribe Paxlovid, you still have options. Common reasons for refusal include concerns about drug interactions, symptom timing, or a belief that your case is too mild. However, Paxlovid remains a critical COVID-19 treatment for eligible high-risk individuals, and timely access matters.
Why providers may decline to prescribe Paxlovid
Some healthcare providers may be unfamiliar with current guidelines, worry about ritonavir drug interactions, or mistakenly believe you’re outside the 5-day window. Others may not consider your symptoms severe enough, despite FDA guidance supporting early treatment in high-risk cases.
What to do if you’re denied Paxlovid
- Ask for clarification — Inquire whether any interactions can be managed or paused.
- Get a second opinion — A telehealth provider familiar with Paxlovid can reassess your case.
- Use an online platform — Klarity Health and others evaluate risk factors and can prescribe if the criteria are met.
- Visit a pharmacist — Some pharmacies can assess and prescribe if they have access to your medical history.
- Know your rights — The FDA doesn’t require a positive test or a severe case. Self-reported symptoms within 5 days may be sufficient under the EUA.
How to talk to your provider about getting a Paxlovid prescription online
If you plan to pursue telehealth, you might say:
“I tested positive for COVID‑19 within the past 5 days and have risk factors (like age, health condition). I’d like to discuss whether Paxlovid is appropriate. If you’re not comfortable prescribing it or unavailable, I’d consider a telehealth appointment to ensure I start treatment quickly if I’m eligible.”
This respectful, factual conversation shows you understand the urgency and guidelines.
Key takeaways
- Paxlovid is an effective, FDA‑authorized oral antiviral for mild-to‑moderate COVID‑19 in high-risk U.S. patients when started within 5 days of symptoms.
- A prescription is required, whether from a physician, APRN, PA, or, in some states, a pharmacist.
- Telehealth is a fast and legal way to get evaluated and prescribed Paxlovid, with several platforms available.
- Klarity Health offers streamlined, insurance‑friendly, rapid appointments geared towards qualifying patients quickly.
Ready to get a Paxlovid prescription online?
If you’ve tested positive in the last 5 days and meet high-risk criteria, don’t delay. Schedule a telehealth appointment with Klarity Health today to get the evaluation and prescription you need—fast, secure, and safe. Protect yourself and minimize risk by acting now.
Need a Paxlovid prescription for COVID-19?
Licensed providers on Klarity Health can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe Paxlovid if medically appropriate.
FAQs
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.
