What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• PM (Paxlovid Mouth)

What is Paxlovid Mouth? (Definition/Background Information)

• Paxlovid is an antiviral drug used to treat COVID-19 infections. It is a combination of two drugs, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir, which work together to block the replication of the virus
• Paxlovid Mouth (PM) is a side effect of taking Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir co-packaged with ritonavir) that causes a lingering bad taste. It is described as bitter or metallic and can last for the duration of Paxlovid treatment, which is generally around five days
• While there is no specific treatment for Paxlovid Mouth, some strategies that may help reduce the symptoms include drinking plenty of water, using sugar-free gum or candy, rinsing the mouth with salt water, and eating or drinking something with a strong flavor

Who gets Paxlovid Mouth? (Age and Sex Distribution)

Any individual who is taking Paxlovid medication may experience changes in taste and smell as a result of the treatment.

What are the Risk Factors for Paxlovid Mouth? (Predisposing Factors)

• There are no known risk factors for Paxlovid Mouth other than taking the medication Paxlovid for COVID-19

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others. 

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Paxlovid Mouth? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Paxlovid Mouth is not fully understood
• However, it is believed to be related to the way that the Paxlovid medication affects the taste buds and the saliva

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Paxlovid Mouth?

• The main symptom of Paxlovid Mouth is a lingering bad taste that is described as bitter or metallic
• Some individuals may also experience a dry mouth or an altered sense of taste

How is Paxlovid Mouth Diagnosed?

• Paxlovid Mouth is typically diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms reported by the patient while taking Paxlovid
• Other tests and exams may not generally be necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Paxlovid Mouth?

Complications of Paxlovid Mouth can include nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite due to the unpleasant taste in one’s mouth.

How is Paxlovid Mouth Treated?

There is no specific treatment for Paxlovid Mouth. The condition resolves following the discontinuation of Paxlovid medication.

However, some strategies that may help reduce the symptoms include:

• Drinking plenty of water or other fluids to help flush out the bad taste
• Using sugar-free gum or candy to stimulate saliva production
• Rinsing the mouth with salt water or baking soda solution
• Eating or drinking something that has a strong flavor, such as lemonade or ginger tea, to help mask the bad taste

The healthcare provider may adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication to help alleviate one’s signs and symptoms.

How can Paxlovid Mouth be Prevented?

Preventing Paxlovid Mouth may not be possible, but some strategies that may help reduce the risk of developing the condition include:

• Drinking plenty of water while taking Paxlovid
• Chewing sugar-free gum or candy to help stimulate saliva production
• Eating or drinking something with a strong flavor to help mask the bad taste

What is the Prognosis of Paxlovid Mouth? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Paxlovid Mouth is generally good, as the symptom typically resolves on its own after the Paxlovid treatment course is completed.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Paxlovid Mouth:

The following link is a useful resource for information on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19):

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/wuhan-coronavirus-infection/