Is Paxlovid Still the Best Medication for COVID-19 in 2025?

Since its emergency use authorization in December 2021, Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) has been a go-to antiviral treatment for COVID-19. But now, in 2025, with new variants emerging and alternative treatments available, is Paxlovid still considered the best option?

This article explores the latest research on Paxlovid’s effectiveness, its potential limitations, and how it compares to newer COVID-19 treatments.

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1. Is Paxlovid Still Effective Against COVID-19?

Paxlovid remains a highly effective antiviral treatment, especially for high-risk individuals. According to the latest data:

• Paxlovid reduces hospitalization and death rates by over 80% when taken within the first five days of symptom onset.
• It continues to work against major SARS-CoV-2 variants, including JN.1 and newer Omicron subvariants.
• However, resistance concerns are growing, as some new mutations show reduced susceptibility to nirmatrelvir.

Despite some reduced efficacy against certain strains, the FDA and CDC still recommend Paxlovid as the primary treatment for high-risk COVID-19 patients.

(CDC.gov)

2. Are There Any New COVID-19 Treatments in 2025?

While Paxlovid remains a first-line treatment, new antiviral medications and monoclonal antibodies are being developed:

• Ensitrelvir (Xocova) – A newer antiviral approved in Japan and under FDA review for U.S. use.
• Molnupiravir (Lagevrio) – Another antiviral, but less effective than Paxlovid and used only in cases where Paxlovid is not an option.
• New monoclonal antibodies – Scientists are developing next-generation monoclonal antibody therapies targeting newer variants.
• Long-acting COVID-19 prevention drugs – Research is ongoing into prophylactic treatments for immunocompromised individuals.

The expansion of treatment options offers more choices for patients who may not tolerate Paxlovid due to drug interactions or side effects.

(NIH.gov)

3. Paxlovid Rebound: Is It Still a Concern?

Paxlovid remains highly effective, but some patients experience “Paxlovid rebound”—a return of symptoms after completing the medication.

• Studies suggest rebound occurs in about 10% of cases, but it does not lead to severe illness.
• The CDC does not recommend retreatment for rebound cases unless symptoms worsen.
• Testing remains crucial—patients experiencing rebound should use rapid home tests to monitor reinfection risk.

Despite rebound concerns, Paxlovid still significantly reduces severe outcomes, making it a preferred treatment for high-risk patients.

4. Who Should Still Take Paxlovid in 2025?

The CDC and WHO continue to recommend Paxlovid for: ✔️ Adults over 50 with underlying health conditions. ✔️ Immunocompromised individuals at risk for severe COVID-19. ✔️ People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung conditions. ✔️ Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals with COVID-19.

For younger, healthy adults, Paxlovid is not always necessary, but can still help reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

(CDC.gov)

5. Is Paxlovid Still the Best COVID-19 Medication?

While Paxlovid remains the top antiviral, its dominance may change as new drugs emerge. Here’s a quick comparison:

For now, Paxlovid remains the best available treatment—but the landscape is evolving as new antiviral drugs and monoclonal therapies emerge.

(WHO.int)

6. The Role of Testing in COVID-19 Treatment

Early detection remains critical for Paxlovid’s effectiveness. Experts recommend: ✔️ Testing immediately after symptom onset to determine eligibility for antivirals. ✔️ Using rapid home tests for fast results. ✔️ Confirming a positive test before starting medication, especially if symptoms are mild.

Testing allows for timely treatment, preventing severe illness and hospitalization.

(CDC.gov)

Conclusion: Paxlovid in 2025 and Beyond

Paxlovid remains a cornerstone of COVID-19 treatment, but its future dominance is uncertain as new medications enter the market.

• It is still highly effective against severe disease.
• Rebound cases are a concern but do not outweigh its benefits.
• New antivirals and monoclonal antibodies are emerging, offering more choices.
• Early testing with rapid home tests remains key to effective treatment.

As research progresses, new treatment options may reshape how we manage COVID-19—but for now, Paxlovid remains a crucial tool in fighting the virus.

Rapid tests remain a vital tool to protect your family and loved ones during seasonal surges of COVID-19. Be sure to stock your medicine cabinet with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.​

Keywords: Paxlovid effectiveness 2025, COVID-19 treatment, SARS-CoV-2, antiviral medications, rapid testing, rapid home tests, long COVID, pandemic response