Potential COVID-19 Treatment Interacts with THIS Popular Drug
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 8, 2022
Dear Living Well Daily Reader,
Have you heard of the new anti-viral drug that is supposed to put a stop to COVID?
The drug, called ritonavir-nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid), is all over the news… and people are clamoring to get it when they or a loved one are struggling with a COVID-19 infection.
Things have been moving fast in this pandemic and this drug was approved under an emergency authorization. This means it hasn’t gone through the normal testing to make sure it is safe.
This a valid concern—but there’s a much bigger one.
Research has found that ritonavir-nirmatrelvir interacts with a LONG list of drugs, including this popular one.
I always say, you are the one who has to look out for your health – and that’s especially true when things are moving fast.
And that’s exactly the case in this instance.
Ritonavir-nirmatrelvir (Paxolovid) has been shown to have a dangerous interaction with heart medications, including:
- antiarrhythmics (for abnormal heartbeats),
- statins (for high cholesterol),
- and calcium channel blockers (for high blood pressure).
You see, this treatment is actually two drugs in one.
The first, ritonavir, has been used for a long time in treating HIV patients.
The drug works by blocking the detoxification pathway in the liver called CYP3A. This detoxification pathway removes many drugs from the body.
But when you block the pathway, drugs stay around the body longer… which, as you can imagine, could be dangerous thing.
The second half of the formula, nirmatrelvir, is a new antiviral drug designed specifically to attack COVID-19.
When you combine the two drugs, ritonavir keeps nirmatrelvir around longer, increasing the odds it could keep COVID-19 from overtaking your body.
There’s only one problem. There are MANY drugs that are detoxified through the CYP3A system – and if you are taking those drugs, then even a normal dose of that drug can be toxic.
And heart medications (like those listed above) are just the start.
There are many more drugs, including chemotherapy drugs, antifungals, antidepressants, opioids, benzodiazepines, and others that could also interact with the ritonavir-nirmatrelvir combo.
If you have a need to take ritonavir-nirmatrelvir, make sure to let your doctor know you are taking other drugs.
P.S. Did you know that sleeping like this could up your COVID-19 risk? Click here to find out more.
SOURCE:
Pearson, Anthony. “Caution: Paxlovid Interacts With Many Heart Meds.” 1/17/22. https://www.medpagetoday.com/opinion/skeptical-cardiologist/96692?xid=nl_mpt_DHE_2022-01-18&eun=g1428058d0r&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily%20Headlines%20Top%20Cat%20HeC%20%202022-01-18&utm_term=NL_Daily_DHE_dual-gmail-definition
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Small Moves for BIG Benefits (An Exercise Surprise!)
A patient asked me the other day, “What’s the least amount of exercise I can get by with that still has benefits?” That’s actually a great question. Because, let’s face it, many of us struggle to find time for exercise. And even more of us go out of our way to AVOID it. So, my...
Widespread “Forever” Chemicals Boost Cancer Risk?!
We’ve known for years that the chemicals lurking in many everyday products aren’t as harmless as we once believed… However, new research reveals an unsettling truth about one specific group of compounds that could be flowing straight from your tap into your waterglass. And according to a new study, they could be raising your cancer...
Mailbag: Ease Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Pain NATURALLY
“What is your position on peripheral neuropathy?” —On Pins and Needles Hi Pins, Peripheral neuropathy is a challenging condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet. Many folks describe neuropathies as feeling like pins and needles, tingling, or burning. When I...
Pancreas Protector Discovered in the VITAMIN Aisle
Most of us are concerned about our heart health. We also take steps to protect our brains. Even our kidneys and livers get some attention. But the pancreas? It’s seldom given a second thought—or at least, not until something goes wrong. And when it does, it can be serious business. The pancreas is vital for...
Study Reveals New Health Risk in Ultra-Processed Food
New research reveals that ultra-processed foods are even WORSE for our health than we imagined. And the problem isn’t just the sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. There’s another sneaky threat lurking in convenience foods. And it could multiply their health risks… A recent study published in the journal Globalization and Health uncovered an alarming problem...
A Simple Vitamin Solution Combats Parkinson’s
Our understanding of the gut-brain connection has grown rapidly in recent years. So, it’s no surprise that scientists suspect a connection between gut health and the development of Parkinson’s. However, new research is adding more details to the picture. A groundbreaking study revealed two common nutrients are often critically low in folks with Parkinson’s. This...
The “Cellular Wildfire” Fueling Long-COVID Revealed
A significant number of folks continue to feel unwell after supposedly “recovering” from COVID-19. I have some exciting news if you’re one of the millions battling long-COVID. Scientists from the University of Queensland just uncovered a crucial piece of the puzzle—and all signs point to inflammation as the culprit. Let me explain… ***** This groundbreaking...
Top 9 Nutrients Needed to Maintain Good Health
Let’s face it… the supplement aisle at your local grocery store is kind of overwhelming. Standing there staring at rows upon rows of colorful bottles, each promising better health, increased energy, or miraculous benefits can leave you feeling downright dizzy. With so many options, how can you possibly know which nutrients are truly essential for...
The Mini-Movement Revolution Beats Traditional Workouts
I get it… not everyone loves exercise. But you don’t have to become a gym rat to get major health benefits. New research reveals that those quick trips to take the garbage out or go to the bathroom might be even MORE valuable than your scheduled exercise time. In fact, these mini-movement breaks could be...
Mailbag: Natural Fixes for Stubborn Toenail Fungus
“Is there an actual cure for toenail fungus?” —Feeling Frustrated If you are frustrated because you’ve been battling toenail fungus, I’m not surprised. Toenail fungus is incredibly difficult to treat. But don’t give up. With a combination of natural treatments and patience, relief is possible. Here’s what’s worked for my patients in the past… Tea...