What is the brand name for Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir?
The brand name for Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is Paxlovid.
PTCE Top 200 · #159
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir
Paxlovid
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is the generic name for the brand-name drug Paxlovid. It is an antiviral (covid-19 protease inhibitor combination) used to treat COVID-19 (mild-moderate). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir ranks #159 and is one of the most frequently tested infectious disease medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Paxlovid |
| Drug class | Antiviral (COVID-19 protease inhibitor combination) |
| Class group | Infectious Disease |
| Common use | COVID-19 (mild-moderate) |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir used for?
Treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID‑19 in adults and pediatric patients (per current authorization/labeling) at high risk for progression to severe disease (nirmatrelvir boosted with ritonavir).
What drug class is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir?
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is an Antiviral (COVID-19 protease inhibitor combination) in the Infectious Disease group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir
- arrow_rightDysgeusia (metallic/bitter taste)
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightHypertension
- arrow_rightMyalgia
- arrow_rightNausea
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMany CYP3A substrates: e.g., antiarrhythmics, certain statins (simvastatin/lovastatin), sedative-hypnotics, ergot derivatives → contraindicated or require holding/adjustment
- arrow_rightImmunosuppressants (tacrolimus/cyclosporine) → markedly increased levels (specialist management)
- arrow_rightAnticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., rivaroxaban) → interaction risk; may be contraindicated
- arrow_rightSt. John's wort and strong CYP3A inducers (rifampin) → reduced Paxlovid effectiveness (avoid)
Is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir a controlled substance?
No. Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir (PTCE mnemonic)
PAX-LOVID = 'PACK of interactions' — nirmatrelvir (protease) + ritonavir (CYP3A4 booster). Start within 5 days of symptoms; HUGE CYP3A4 interactions (statins, anticoagulants, immunosuppressants); 5-day course.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Paxlovid's ritonavir exists only to BOOST nirmatrelvir — and it drags in major CYP3A4 interactions (statins, anticoagulants, and more); the mandatory interaction screen is the exam story.
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir FAQ
What is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir used for?
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is used to treat COVID-19 (mild-moderate). Treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID‑19 in adults and pediatric patients (per current authorization/labeling) at high risk for progression to severe disease (nirmatrelvir boosted with ritonavir).
What drug class is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir?
Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is an Antiviral (COVID-19 protease inhibitor combination) (Infectious Disease group).
Is Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir a controlled substance?
No. Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Infectious Disease group
Drill Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).