Where to Find Antiviral Medication Paxlovid in Miami

Paxlovid is the first-choice recommendation for COVID-19 infections as research has shown it to have the highest rate of effectiveness for treatments. In Miami Florida there were approximately 162 pharmacies that currently carry stock of Paxlovid; however, one should always call prior to going to ensure there is adequate supply.

Source: NPR

Pharmacies That Carry Paxlovid in Miami

The antiviral treatment works best when taken as soon as possible after developing symptoms, about 5 days or less after symptom onset. It is used to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in both children and adults and can be accessed by anyone a physician deems eligible for treatment.  Eligibility criteria includes:

• Positive SARS-CoV-2 test
• Ages 12 years and older within at least 88 pounds
• Symptom onset within 5 days
• Considered to be at a higher risk of severe illness or complications from COVID-19
• Not requiring hospitalization due to severe or critical COVID-19 at treatment initiation

The Biden-Harris administration implemented the “Test to Treat” program to increase access to antiviral therapy. The Test to Treat initiative is an excellent resource as participating pharmacies will allow you to take a rapid antigen test onsite and receive a Paxlovid prescription within minutes of testing positive for COVID-19. A Paxlovid prescription requires you to take 3 pills by mouth twice a day, for 5 days; the 5-day supply is what is referred to as a “course”.

The list below has information regarding which pharmacies in Miami Florida have Paxlovid, their pharmacy address, and how many courses of treatment are available. It is important to call in advance to ensure that the pharmacy has doses available for you. If you need more information, you can also visit HealthData.gov for the complete list of pharmacies carrying Paxlovid.

Paxlovid Stock in Miami, FL As of August 1, 2022 by Neighborhood

Brickll and Brickell Key

Coral Gables

Cutler Bay and South Miami Heights

Edgewater and Midtown

Little Havana and Inner Downtown Miami

Little Havana, Flagami, and Coral Way

Miami Gardens, North Miami, and North Miami Beach

South Miami Heights, Zoomiami Area, and Goulds

Sweetwater and Westchester

West Kendall and Kendale Lakes

West Miami and Westchester

Westchester, University Park, and Olympia Heights

Source: Healthdata.gov’s COVID-19 Therapeutic Locator

Paxlovid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Consider this additional information when it comes to Paxlovid.

What is a Paxlovid Rebound and Will I Experience One?

A Paxlovid rebound occurs 2 to 8 days after recovery and refers to a recurrence of COVID-19 symptoms and/or a new positive viral test after having tested negative. Researchers are still trying to understand exactly why and how a rebound occurs; it is being seen in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. Experiencing a rebound does not mean that Paxlovid is ineffective, it still remains one of the most therapies of reducing COVID-19 symptom severity. If you believe to be experiencing a rebound, contact your physician immediately. 

Are There Alternative Antiviral Therapies?

Yes, there are 4 other antiviral medications for COVID-19. These include the paxlovid and lagevrio antiviral pills, and the veklury and bebtelovimab IV infusions. Paxlovid remains the most effective, and therefore, the most recommended. As of April 2022, the NIH order of preference for COVID-19  antiviral treatment is:

1. Paxlovid
2. Veklury (remdesivir) — an IV infusion
3. Bebtelovimab — an IV infusion
4. Lagevrio (molnupiravir)

Are There Side Effects To Taking Paxlovid?

Although rare, the FDA lists potential side effects of taking Paxlovid as:

• Dysgeusia (altered or impaired sense of taste), 
• Diarrhea
• increased blood pressure
• Myalgia (muscle aches)
• Allergic reactions
• Abdominal pain, nausea, and
• Malaise (feeling generally unwell)

Bottom Line

There are numerous pharmacies in Miami, Florida that have Paxlovid supplies readily available, in addition to onsite testing for COVID-19. Clinical studies have shown that Paxlovid is extremely effective; one study revealed that those who were given Paxlovid were 89% less likely to develop severe illness and death compared to trial participants who received a placebo. A physician will determine your eligibility to receive Paxlovid, but 

Getting a test for COVID-19 following a known exposure or noticeable symptoms is one of the most critical steps in managing the spread of the virus. With a Mira membership, you get at-home tests and access to low-cost lab tests, discounted prescriptions, and urgent and virtual care services. Sign up today!