In Snohomish County, patients seeking the antiviral treatment Paxlovid are facing disappointment as local pharmacies struggle with shortages of the medication. The situation has been exacerbated by the discontinuation of federal COVID treatment programs, leaving many patients unable to access the critical drug. Numerous individuals have reported being unable to find Paxlovid despite extensive efforts.

Mark Hegeberg, a 67-year-old patient who recently contracted COVID-19, was prescribed Paxlovid by his doctor. However, when he went to pick up the medication at his regular Rite Aid store in Mill Creek, he discovered it was out of stock. Hegeberg then contacted multiple local pharmacies, only to find that Paxlovid was "sold out everywhere."

Paxlovid, manufactured by Pfizer, is commonly prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe cases of COVID-19. It is a combination of two drugs: nirmatrelvir, which inhibits the spread of the virus, and ritonavir, which prolongs the effectiveness of nirmatrelvir in the body. During the peak of the pandemic, the FDA expedited access to Paxlovid before completing its usual approval process, citing emergency circumstances. From 2021 to 2023, the federal government collaborated with pharmacies, health departments, and care providers to distribute free Paxlovid.

However, with the approval of Paxlovid for commercial use last year, the federal government stepped back from distribution efforts. This transition has led to challenges for local pharmacies in meeting the increasing demand for the medication. Previously, pharmacies would receive Paxlovid in large quantities, but now they are receiving only a few packages at a time.

Furthermore, without the free distribution program, Paxlovid carries a price tag of nearly $1,400 without insurance. Despite having insurance, Hegeberg had to pay a $75 copay to obtain his dose. Although individuals with government insurance or no insurance may still qualify for free Paxlovid until December 31, the availability of the medication is the primary concern for patients.

To locate Paxlovid, patients can use a nationwide COVID-19 medication locator, which lists pharmacies offering the drug, regardless of stock availability. Unfortunately, the Bartell Drugs location in Everett, which is one of the six listed within a 5-mile radius, is currently out of stock. Pharmacists at this location have to redirect or turn away five to seven patients with Paxlovid prescriptions each week. The manager attributed the supply-chain issues not only to Rite Aid but also mentioned the financial troubles faced by the company.

The shortage of Paxlovid in Snohomish County is the result of the federal government ending its distribution program for the medication. John Doyle, a spokesperson for the state Department of Health, confirmed this fact. Additionally, after the FDA approved Paxlovid for commercial sale, pharmacies were required to dispose of or return all doses labeled "emergency use," irrespective of expiration date. The impact of this requirement on the county's supply remains unclear.

In light of the scarcity of Paxlovid, there are concerns that patients may experience prolonged illness, and the risk of transmission could increase. Kari Bray, a spokesperson for the Snohomish County Health Department, emphasized the importance of staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and staying home when feeling unwell, especially as people travel and attend gatherings during the summer.

After an exhaustive search, Mark Hegeberg was fortunate enough to secure the last available dose of Paxlovid from Bellgrove Pharmacy in Woodinville, thanks to a tip from a family member. This marked his third time contracting COVID-19, and his first experience using Paxlovid. He expresses sympathy for others who are unable to find the medication.

The scarcity of Paxlovid in Snohomish County highlights the challenges faced by patients in accessing necessary antiviral treatments. Efforts are needed to ensure a steady supply of this critical medication to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on individuals and communities.