nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid™) – Plan Z (or ZE)

Last updated on August 3, 2023

For more information, refer to Paxlovid: A Guide for B.C. Pharmacists

Generic name

nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid)

Strength

300/100 mg (eGFR greater than or equal to 60 mL/min); 150/100 mg (eGFR 30-59 mL/min)

Form

tablet

Criteria

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) is indicated for use in patients 18 years and older with mild/moderate COVID-19 infection who are at risk for disease progression*. Paxlovid is prescribed using a Paxlovid prescription form.

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) is covered under PharmaCare’s Plan Z (Assurance Plan) as a regular benefit. Exceptional Plan Z coverage of Paxlovid is available for any patient receiving treatment in B.C.. They may be in the wait period for MSP, or they may live in a different province or country (see Special Notes).

*See Practice Tool #1: Clinician Assessment for details on risk disease progression and definition of vaccine status. See Practice Tool #2 for CEV criteria details. http://www.bccdc.ca/health-professionals/clinical-resources/covid-19-care/treatments

Special notes

  • Submit to PharmaNet using the DIN
  • This drug is covered under Plan Z, which means it is fully covered for any B.C. resident with a prescription
  • Exceptional Plan Z coverage of Paxlovid is available for any patient receiving treatment in B.C.. They may be in the wait period for MSP, or they may live in a different province or country. To apply, the prescriber or pharmacist calls the HIBC Help Desk. Be prepared to provide:
    • college ID
    • patient’s name, PHN (if applicable), date of birth, and address
    • confirmation that the patient requires treatment in B.C.
    • if applicable, confirmation that the patient has current medical coverage in another Canadian province or territory
      • patient’s out-of-province medical plan number, if possible
    • country of residence (if applicable)

Form

When prescribing Paxlovid, use the below Rx form. This provides pharmacies with essential information and ensures this medication is dispensed quickly, so that patients can begin their treatment within the clinical time frame.