Major development for life-saving Covid drug in Australia

This medicine dramatically reduces the chances of becoming seriously ill from Covid-19 - even days after developing symptoms.

A new antiviral pill which cuts the risk of hospitalisation or death from Covid-19 by 88 per cent will soon be rolled out to at-risk Aussies for as little as $6.80.

Paxlovid, a prescription-only oral medication used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of Covid-19, will be available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from May 1, Health Minister Greg Hunt has announced.

The drug can be used by people who are at “high risk of developing severe disease” from Covid-19 and with mild to moderate symptoms of the virus, reducing the need for hospitalisation.

Mr Hunt said final data from the drug’s trial revealed Paxlovid reduced the risk of hospitalisation or death by 88 per cent when taken within five days of symptom onset.

Health Minister Greg Hunt announced the Covid-19 treatment drug Paxlovid will be available on the PBS from May 1.

Half a million courses of the drug have been secured for supply this year.

People who develop these mild symptoms can be prescribed Paxlovid if they are over 65 and have two other risk factors for severe disease, or if they are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin and are over 50 with two other risk factors for serious disease.

People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised can also be prescribed the drug.

Mr Hunt said the drug would be available for $42.50 per script and $6.80 if using a concession card.

“It is important that patients continue to follow local health guidance to isolate if they test positive for COVID-19,” he said.

“It’s recommended they use telehealth to consult their doctor and ask their pharmacy to arrange for Paxlovid to be delivered to their home, if necessary.”