Like all medicines, Paxlovid can cause side effects in some people, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
These common side effects of Paxlovid happen in up to 1 in 10 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Diarrhoea
Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.
Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.
If you take contraception and Paxlovid makes you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.
Feeling sick or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to take your medicine after you have eaten.
If you're being sick, try small, frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.
If you take contraceptive pills and Paxlovid makes you vomit, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.
Changes in your sense of taste
Drink plenty of water and eat plain foods that you usually enjoy.
Serious side effects
There are no known serious side effects with Paxlovid.
Serious allergic reaction
In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to Paxlovid.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
- you're wheezing
- you get tightness in the chest or throat
- you have trouble breathing or talking
- your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling
You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects Paxlovid. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.