What is the brand name for Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir?
The brand name for Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir is Paxlovid.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
How hard is the PTCE?what the pass rate really means
Failed the PTCB? The comeback planwhat to do if the first attempt failsSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Nirmatrelvir / Ritonavir the way the PTCE asks it
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