Finding COVID-19 treatments can feel confusing, especially when you are sick and need help quickly. If you have heard about Paxlovid and want to know whether you can get it from Walgreens, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what Paxlovid is, how to get it from your local Walgreens, who should take it, what it costs, and much more. This article is written in simple words so that anyone can follow along easily.
What Is Paxlovid and Why Do People Take It?
Paxlovid is a prescription medicine used to treat COVID-19 in people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. It is an antiviral pill, which means it works by stopping the virus from multiplying inside your body. The medicine comes in two parts: nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Together, these two medicines help lower the amount of virus in your system, making it easier for your body to fight the infection.
Doctors recommend Paxlovid for people who have tested positive for COVID-19 and who may develop serious symptoms. The goal of Paxlovid is to keep people out of the hospital and to reduce the chance of death. Many people prefer this treatment because it is taken at home in pill form instead of needing an injection or IV. For patients who are older or have certain health conditions, Paxlovid can make a big difference in recovery.
Can You Get Paxlovid at Walgreens?
Yes, you can get Paxlovid at Walgreens, but there are some steps you need to follow. Walgreens pharmacies across the United States carry Paxlovid, though availability may vary depending on the store. Some locations keep Paxlovid in stock regularly, while others may need to order it for you. The good news is that Walgreens works closely with healthcare providers and government programs to make Paxlovid more accessible.
It is important to understand that you cannot just walk in and buy Paxlovid off the shelf like over-the-counter medicine. Since Paxlovid is a prescription medication, you need approval from a doctor or healthcare professional. After you get the prescription, Walgreens can fill it for you and provide instructions on how to take it safely.
How to Get Paxlovid from Walgreens
Getting Paxlovid from Walgreens is not complicated, but you do need to follow a few steps. These steps make sure you qualify for the medicine and that you take it correctly. Walgreens has designed its services to help people get tested, receive prescriptions, and pick up their medication in one place whenever possible.
Talk to a Doctor or Walgreens Pharmacist
The first step is to talk with a healthcare provider. If you already have a doctor, they can give you a prescription if they decide Paxlovid is right for you. But if you don’t have a regular doctor, Walgreens also offers options. Many Walgreens locations have pharmacists who can prescribe Paxlovid under the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization. In some cases, you may be able to get tested for COVID-19 at Walgreens, meet with a pharmacist or telehealth provider, and walk out with your prescription the same day.
This makes Walgreens a convenient choice, especially for people who may not have easy access to a primary care doctor. The pharmacist will also check your current medicines, because Paxlovid can interact with other drugs.
Find a Store Near You
Once you have the prescription, you need to make sure your Walgreens has Paxlovid in stock. You can do this by calling your local store or using the Walgreens website. Some states also have online tools that let you search for Paxlovid availability near you. Since supply may vary, it is always smart to check before driving to the pharmacy.
Walgreens has thousands of locations across the United States, so there is a good chance that one nearby carries the medicine. If your local Walgreens doesn’t have it, the pharmacist can help you find the closest store that does.
Pick Up Your Medicine
When your prescription is ready, you can pick it up just like any other medication. Walgreens offers multiple options, including in-store pickup, drive-thru, or home delivery in some areas. Make sure you start taking the medicine as soon as possible—ideally within five days of your first COVID-19 symptoms. This timing is very important, because Paxlovid works best when started early.
The pharmacist will explain how to take the pills, what side effects to watch for, and what to do if you miss a dose. Taking the medicine exactly as prescribed is the key to getting the full benefits.
Do You Need a Prescription for Paxlovid at Walgreens?
Yes, you absolutely need a prescription to get Paxlovid at Walgreens. This medicine cannot be bought over-the-counter because it is powerful and can interact with other drugs. The FDA requires that a doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist review your medical history before giving you Paxlovid.
The prescription requirement helps keep patients safe. For example, Paxlovid can interact with medicines used for heart disease, seizures, or depression. By reviewing your records, the healthcare provider ensures that taking Paxlovid will not cause harm. At Walgreens, pharmacists are trained to check for these issues and may contact your doctor if needed.
How Much Does Paxlovid Cost at Walgreens?
The cost of Paxlovid at Walgreens depends on your insurance, government programs, and availability. In many cases, Paxlovid may be free or low-cost, especially if the government is covering the medication under COVID-19 relief programs. For people with health insurance, most plans will cover Paxlovid with little or no copay.
If you don’t have insurance, you may still qualify for free treatment through federal programs. Walgreens staff can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Since prices can change, the best way to know is to ask your local Walgreens pharmacy directly.
Who Should Take Paxlovid?
Not everyone with COVID-19 needs Paxlovid. It is mainly for people who are at high risk of severe illness. This includes older adults and people with certain health conditions. The goal is to protect those who might have more trouble fighting the virus on their own.
People Over 50
Age is one of the biggest risk factors for severe COVID-19. People over the age of 50, especially those over 65, are more likely to end up in the hospital. Because of this, Paxlovid is often recommended for older adults who test positive for COVID-19. Even if you are generally healthy, age alone can increase your risk.
People with Health Problems
Certain health conditions also make COVID-19 more dangerous. People with diabetes, heart disease, lung problems, obesity, or weakened immune systems may be good candidates for Paxlovid. If you have one or more of these conditions, your doctor or Walgreens pharmacist will likely consider prescribing Paxlovid if you test positive.
How Long Do You Take Paxlovid?
The standard course of Paxlovid lasts five days. You will take three pills in the morning and three pills at night. It is very important not to stop early, even if you start to feel better. Stopping too soon may allow the virus to grow again. The full five-day treatment helps ensure the virus is fully controlled in your body.
What Are the Side Effects of Paxlovid?
Like all medicines, Paxlovid can cause side effects. The most common ones include a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth, diarrhea, and muscle aches. Some people may also feel tired or notice changes in their sense of taste. These side effects are usually mild and go away after finishing the medicine.
The pharmacist at Walgreens will explain what to watch for and when to call a doctor. Most people can take Paxlovid safely, but because it interacts with many other medicines, your provider will carefully review your health history before prescribing it.
The Bottom Line
Walgreens Paxlovid services make it easier for people to get COVID-19 treatment quickly. While you cannot just buy Paxlovid without a prescription, Walgreens helps connect patients with doctors and pharmacists who can prescribe it. With thousands of locations, online tools, and trained pharmacists, Walgreens is one of the most convenient places to get Paxlovid in the United States.
If you test positive for COVID-19 and are at higher risk of severe illness, don’t wait. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist right away and ask if Paxlovid is right for you. Acting fast can help prevent serious illness, and Walgreens is ready to guide you every step of the way.
