Primovir is an antiviral medicine used for the treatment of COVID-19 infection. It is a combination of Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir. This combination helps reduce the multiplication of the coronavirus in the body and lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or death, especially in high-risk patients.

Mechanism of Action

• Nirmatrelvir blocks the activity of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro or 3CL protease), an enzyme the virus needs to make new proteins and multiply.

• Ritonavir does not directly act on the virus, but it slows down the breakdown of nirmatrelvir in the liver by inhibiting CYP3A enzymes, thereby increasing its effectiveness.

  Uses

  • Treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in patients who are at risk of progressing to severe disease (such as elderly, immunocompromised individuals, or those with chronic conditions).

  • It is usually prescribed within the first 5 days of symptom onset for best effect.

    Adverse Effects

    Common side effects may include:

    • Altered taste (metallic or bitter taste)

    • Diarrhea

    • Headache

    • High blood pressure

    • Muscle aches