Concerns Mount as Price of Lifesaving Covid-19 Antiviral Paxlovid Set to Soar in 2022

The price of the Covid-19 antiviral medication Paxlovid is expected to rise next year, making it less accessible for most patients as the US transitions out of the emergency phase of the pandemic. While Medicare, Medicaid, and uninsured individuals will still have access to the medication for free through 2024, those with commercial insurance are likely to face a copay. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on people's ability to afford the medication and the potential for decreased uptake due to higher costs. Doctors emphasize the importance of access to Paxlovid, as it has been shown to reduce the risk of severe illness and death among vulnerable groups.