1. BLOG
  2. Medication Updates
  3. FDA Approves Pharmacists to Prescribe Paxlovid – What We Need to Know

FDA Approves Pharmacists to Prescribe Paxlovid – What We Need to Know

Last updated Oct 26, 2022 | COVID-19, Health Trends, Medication Updates, Pharmacy News

On July 6th, 2022 the FDA revised the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Paxlovid. With this update, licensed pharmacists were granted the ability to prescribe Paxlovid to eligible patients, with certain limitations existing to ensure the safety and correct use of the medication. In today’s blog post, we will discuss this approval and what pharmacies need to know.

What is Paxlovid is approved to treat?

Per the EUA, Paxlovid is approved to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kilograms or about 88 pounds) with positive results of direct SARS-CoV-2 viral testing, who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.

Patients are eligible for Paxlovid by reporting a positive COVID-19 home test result from a rapid antigen diagnostic test, or a positive PCR test to their provider. 

Conditions where Paxlovid can be prescribed by a pharmacist: 

Per the FDA, Paxlovid may be prescribed for an individual patient by a state-licensed pharmacist under the following conditions:

  • Sufficient information is available, such as through access to health records less than 12 months old or consultation with a health care provider in an established provider-patient relationship with the individual patient, to assess renal and hepatic function; and

  • Sufficient information is available, such as through access to health records, patient reporting of medical history, or consultation with a health care provider in an established provider-patient relationship with the individual patient, to obtain a comprehensive list of medications (prescribed and non-prescribed) that the patient is taking to assess for potential drug interaction.

When should a pharmacist refer the patient to a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or person authorized under state law to prescribe drugs for an in-person or telehealth appointment?

Per the FDA, pharmacists should not prescribe Paxlovid and refer the patients when:

  • Sufficient information is not available to assess renal and hepatic function.
  • Sufficient information is not available to assess for a potential drug interaction.
  • Modification of other medications is needed due to a potential drug interaction.
  • Paxlovid is not an appropriate therapeutic option based on the authorized Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers or due to potential drug interactions for which recommended monitoring would not be feasible.

 What should pharmacies have patients provide during their consultations?  

  • Electronic or printed health records at least less than 12 months old, including any laboratory work. This is imperative so the pharmacist can assess the liver and kidney function of the patient. If the patient is unable to supply this, they can provide the pharmacist with their healthcare provider’s information so they can reach out for it.

  • A list of all medications they are taking, including OTCs. This is imperative so the pharmacist can check for drug interactions. 

In Conclusion

Through this new prescribing ability, pharmacists will continue to keep their communities healthy and cared for during these uncertain times.

 

Keep in Touch

Your monthly email to stay up to date with the latest in healthcare and technology.

Related Posts

CVS and Walgreens Walkouts: What Independent Pharmacies Should Know
CVS and Walgreens Walkouts: What Independent Pharmacies Should Know

In recent weeks, the pharmacy industry has been shaken up by numerous changes and events. Staff walkouts at CVS and Walgreens captured the attention of pharmacists and patients alike and these walkouts have left many curious about the reasons behind them and what implications these events may have on the future of the pharmacy profession. By understanding what led retail pharmacy team members to take these drastic actions, we can look at what independent pharmacies can do to avoid similar issues and also how we can help members of these communities affected by closures.

read more
How Your Pharmacy Can Participate in American Diabetes Month
How Your Pharmacy Can Participate in American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month – a time to come together to spread awareness about diabetes prevention and management. Pharmacies play a crucial role in healthcare, making them ideal partners in promoting awareness and education during this month. In this blog post, we’ll explore key ways pharmacies can actively participate in American Diabetes Month.

read more
9 Ways Pharmacies Can Participate in Health Literacy Month
9 Ways Pharmacies Can Participate in Health Literacy Month

Health literacy plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of individuals and communities. October is recognized as Health Literacy Month, a time when healthcare professionals, organizations, and communities come together to promote understanding and access to health information. In this blog we’ll share nine great ways that your team can celebrate at your pharmacy this year.

read more
digital pharmacist - transform your pharmacy illustration

Ready to Transform Your Pharmacy?

Get Started With Your Demo Today.

 

Existing customer looking for help? Head to our contact us page and fill out the form, or give us a call: 877-959-7550