Paxlovid and Bad Taste: What Users Say (Page 4)

• Fem...
• June 29, 2022

For COVID-19 "Started feeling sick on Friday. The COVID tests were negative. On Saturday, I tested positive. Since I had a bad reaction to the vaccine and my health problems, I got Paxlovid. Six hours after the first dose, I started feeling better. By the second day, my temperature got normal. As side effects, the taste is bad, very thirsty, some diarrhea, I feel very weak and lightheaded, my vision is affected. I have no cold symptoms since day 3 of medication. My body rejected the medication on day 4, but I still finished 3 pills in the morning and at night. Have pressure in chest, it gets worse if I try to walk. Oxygen, blood pressure, and bathroom usage are normal as of day 4. Very tired, more neurological. As of today, it really helped with COVID symptoms: body pain, chills. Hope no long side effects from this medication. Love the package."

• Gum...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 12, 2022

For COVID-19 "Bless my doctor for giving this to me! Had a persistent cough, woke up at 2 a.m. with such a sore throat, etc. (Had 2 regular and 1 booster of Moderna). Maybe could have toughed it out, but since I am 77 years old and have lupus, decided to call her. The next a.m., no sore throat - 1st real blessing. However, beginning with the second dose of meds, the horrible taste in my mouth. I mean horrible. The bad taste woke me up in the night several times. Not the flu symptoms! Tried hard candy, no use for one whole day. Got on this site and tried extra water (I had been drinking OJ and diet ginger ale) and chewing gum. All day yesterday chewed gum and minimal bad taste. Last night, no waking up to the bad taste. This a.m., a little bit of bad taste, but will drink my water and chew more gum (a friend went to the store and bought me about 50 pieces of Extra Sweet Watermelon), so I am good to go for the rest of 2.5 days!! I had avoided Covid for 26 months - hopefully the worst is over!"

• All...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 1, 2023

For COVID-19 "I’m on my 4th day of this medication and 5th day of having Covid. I do believe this medication is the reason I’m almost back to being 100%. I have a slight stuffy nose still, but that’s it. I only decided to take this medication because the first time I had Covid, I was sick for a month and also ended up with pneumonia from it. The only downfall I have experienced with this medication is the horrible taste that everyone else describes! It definitely becomes unbearable at times! Almost stopped taking it, but seeing how much better I feel, I decided to keep going."

• Ano...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 23, 2022

For COVID-19 "I tested positive on a Tuesday and had felt poorly for 2 days before I decided to test. I had congestion, fever, muscle aches, brain fog, and tightness in my chest. I immediately started taking Paxlovid. Within 24 hours, I felt better. By Friday, I retested, and it was negative. The taste was awful, and I slept terribly with nightmares and woke up frequently. I used gummies and berry mints throughout the 5-day treatment. I feel 100% and very happy to have a negative test. This is my second bout of COVID. The first time wasn’t as severe but felt icky for 2 weeks after symptoms started. I had J&J and 1 booster. I was going for a second booster last week, but I got COVID instead."

• Pax...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 24, 2023

For COVID-19 "After taking care of my husband, who was told he had a viral infection, he actually had COVID. I became infected after my 4th day of caring for him. My doctor prescribed Paxlovid twice daily. I have COPD and high blood pressure. On day one, the medication left a terrible aftertaste in my mouth the entire day. I stopped taking it. The following day, my condition was so bad, I could barely breathe, and I was in so much pain. I then began taking the Paxlovid again, this time, I chewed gum to avoid the aftertaste, and it helped. On day two, I woke up feeling as if I didn't have COVID. I recommend this medication to everyone with COVID. My husband is also on the medication now and is feeling fantastic. We are both still positive after using the at-home test, but we are no longer suffering. Thank you, Pfizer!!!"

• Atr...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 6, 2023

For COVID-19 "Ugh. So this is my second time having COVID, and I have long COVID symptoms from the first time. I also have asthma, and so my doctor prescribed Paxlovid. The good is my COVID lung and throat symptoms were gone within 24 hours, but the side effects are miserable. Nausea, headache, sweats, stomach ache, and a horrible taste in my mouth. And I’m on the renal dosing. I am happy I can breathe, but this medication is miserable."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 16, 2022

For COVID-19 "The taste was absolutely awful, but it corrected my taste and smell problems from the first time I had COVID. I had COVID 18 months or so ago. It destroyed my taste and smell, and it has never fully come back. Many foods I loved tasted awful for 18 months. After taking Paxlovid, which, by the way, is awful tasting, I can now eat peanut butter again and peppers. Not sure about the other foods because this just happened, but I'm very hopeful. It was worth the 5 days of nastiness."

• Aus...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 8, 2022

For COVID-19 "Started Paxlovid 5:30 PM today, currently 11 PM. I have no side effects, other than the horrible taste. I found lemon juice with honey, sipped slowly, gave quite good relief. The best option I found was Vegemite, although mainly only available in Australia. Vegemite is a salty spread for sandwiches or crackers. I had 1 heaped teaspoon, dissolved in boiling water. Just sip a teaspoon every 2-3 minutes, then hold in the mouth for around 15 seconds. This helped greatly."

• Ter...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 8, 2022

For COVID-19 "Definitely so bitter aftertaste. However, in 24 hours, this medication relieved me from my COVID symptoms misery. If you have symptoms, first get tested right away, do not wait. Upon testing positive, have a doctor prescribe you Pax (I did a quick virtual appointment), and start taking it right away (Pax cost is $0). I would trade any of the awful metallic taste for any of the severe COVID symptoms I had for 3.5 days despite having 3 Pfizer vaccines."

• Imp...
• September 19, 2022

For COVID-19 "I had COVID three times now. First time, I was miserable, recovered in about two and a half weeks. Second time, I was put on a ventilator and hospitalized a few days short of three months, took a year plus to recover to around 90 percent. Third time, I was given Paxlovid three days after testing positive, and two days after starting to show symptoms. I read about the side effects and thought about not taking it, but I started taking it a day after I got it. Felt a bit better on day 2 of taking Paxlovid. Day three, I felt pretty good and tested negative for COVID. Finished the 5-day course and feel better than I did before catching COVID again. Side effects are a bad taste in mouth, a bit of indigestion, blah feeling, foul-smelling breath, and some random aches and pains (nothing new there for us older folks). Wish I wouldn't have tried talking myself out of taking it and would have started it sooner. Also had the kidney protection reduced dosage because of high creatinine levels. Much better with side effects than not taking it."

• Ter...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 8, 2022

For COVID-19 "Paxlovid did knock my COVID symptoms down, but I did experience the nasty taste and burning diarrhea/bowel movements side effects while taking it. The burning was the worst side effect. For me, that started on the 3rd day. Cinnamon candy helped with the taste issue."

• unv...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 26, 2022

For COVID-19 "Started out with a small tickle in the back of my throat on a Friday, then 2 days later a very sore throat and occasional dry cough. I thought strep. On vacation, so my wife suggested getting tested on Wednesday, well, it was COVID. The doctor suggested this Paxlovid but said it wasn't required if I didn't want it, which I didn't. But since my wife works at a hospital and I'm not 'vaxxed', she suggested I get it. Took the 1st dose early afternoon. The pills are very large, so if you have trouble with large pills, this may not be for you. Sore throat was almost gone the next day, but I was still 'tired'. The bad taste was awful! Like others, I took Halls or Ricola to mask the taste. Then there was the gas and surprise diarrhea over the next couple of days. Luckily we went home, but the trips to the bathroom were painful and really stirred up my hemorrhoids. On my last day now, thankfully! Not sure if it really helped. Don't think I'll repeat this if I ever get the COVID-19 again."

• jho...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 23, 2022

For COVID-19 "I am immune compromised and have been vaccinated once. I got COVID the first time before the vaccine was out. Was out of work for two and a half months, never been so sick in my life. The second diagnosis was about one week ago. Started taking Paxlovid on day two of symptoms. Had a fever off and on for about three days. Had the worst sore throat for about three days also. Then started to feel better on day four, now last day of meds. Still have some symptoms, a little worried about stopping them. Had that bad taste, small price to pay for not getting as sick as I was the first time!!"

• Jan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 2, 2022

For COVID-19 "I started Paxlovid on the day I was diagnosed, which was within 18 hours of the fever beginning. I took my fifth dose a couple of hours ago. The horrible, chemical-like taste that comes up my throat and back of my nose is almost intolerable. It makes me gag, cough, and feel nauseated. The back and sides of my tongue have the most bitter taste."

• AD4...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 27, 2023

For COVID-19 "Health background — Not currently vaccinated, Covid history: June ‘22 and Aug ‘23 - both not severe cases, F, 43, 5’7, 153lbs, currently eating healthy and on a low carb diet, fairly active, day 2.5 of Covid symptoms. Currently taking Effexor XR, Vyvanse, and Hydroxyzine. # of Paxlovid dosages taken: 1. Like mentioned above, I have only taken one dose of Paxlovid, which was right before bed, 8 hours ago. So I can’t review on whether this medication works well or not for Covid. That being said, I woke up this morning with the worst tasting morning breath I have ever had. Very bitter and sour taste in my mouth. My tongue also has a very slight numbness to it right now. My morning coffee tasted slightly different, and now that I have finished it, I’m picking up on a hint of a chemical taste in my mouth. My ears are loudly ringing, but I’m not sure if that’s the Covid or not, but I didn’t have it prior to the Paxlovid."

• AD4...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 27, 2023

For COVID-19 "Health background — Not currently vaccinated, Covid history: June ‘22 and Aug ‘23 - both not severe cases, F, 43, 5’7, 153lbs, currently eating healthy and on a low carb diet, fairly active, day 2.5 of Covid symptoms. Currently taking Effexor XR, Vyvanse, and Hydroxyzine. # of Paxlovid dosages taken: 1. Like mentioned above, I have only taken one dose of Paxlovid, which was right before bed, 8 hours ago. So I can’t review on whether this medication works well or not for Covid. That being said, I woke up this morning with the worst tasting morning breath I have ever had. Very bitter and sour taste in my mouth. My tongue also has a very slight numbness to it right now. My morning coffee tasted slightly different, and now that I have finished it, I’m picking up on a hint of a chemical taste in my mouth. My ears are loudly ringing, but I’m not sure if that’s the Covid or not, but I didn’t have it prior to the Paxlovid."

• AD4...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 27, 2023

For COVID-19 "Health background — Not currently vaccinated, Covid history: June ‘22 and Aug ‘23 - both not severe cases, F, 43, 5’7, 153lbs, currently eating healthy and on a low carb diet, fairly active, day 2.5 of Covid symptoms. Currently taking Effexor XR, Vyvanse, and Hydroxyzine. # of Paxlovid dosages taken: 1. Like mentioned above, I have only taken one dose of Paxlovid, which was right before bed, 8 hours ago. So I can’t review on whether this medication works well or not for Covid. That being said, I woke up this morning with the worst tasting morning breath I have ever had. Very bitter and sour taste in my mouth. My tongue also has a very slight numbness to it right now. My morning coffee tasted slightly different, and now that I have finished it, I’m picking up on a hint of a chemical taste in my mouth. My ears are loudly ringing, but I’m not sure if that’s the Covid or not, but I didn’t have it prior to the Paxlovid."

• Wor...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 30, 2023

For COVID-19 "I was on day 3 of COVID, and my head was pounding, cough, stuffed nose, runny nose, and sore throat. Took this Friday night, and right now, Saturday night, feeling so much better. It does leave a disgusting taste in your mouth all day, like rubbing alcohol. At one point, I almost cried because I just wanted to sleep without the taste, but Jolly Ranchers help, and it is worth getting rid of the throbbing headache."

• sto...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 19, 2023

For COVID-19 "I tested positive for Covid after returning from an 8-day cruise. My initial symptoms the first day were a sore throat, and the next day, scratchy and sore throat. By the time I arrived home, I was having chills without fever, coughing profusely, stuffy head and sinus, and feeling tired. After testing positive, I called my PCP, and he prescribed Paxlovid. After taking the first dose, I could feel quite a bit of relief. However, the downside was the terrible aftertaste! By my second dose, I felt great! Although fully vaccinated, I'm at risk because of my age and asthma. Taking immediate action was crucial for me."

• Ted...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 27, 2022

For COVID-19 "Our case was unusual, we went to the doctor for our annual physicals. My wife and I both got flu shots, my wife also got a shingles shot, which I refused. The next day, we had low-grade fevers. This seemed normal for flu shots, but it should only last 2 days. My wife was worse, so maybe 2 shots might do that. By Saturday, my wife temped 102.5, and I knew something was wrong. We immediately called our doctor Monday morning but couldn’t get a virtual appointment till the next day. So we are one week and 6 days after our first temp signs. We both tested COVID positive and were given Paxlovid. Our third dose will be in a half hour. The bad taste was there, but we found if you eat or drink something bland, such as plain water, it just tasted nasty. However, iced water was much better. Watermelon Monster chilled was really good! Same with foods, flavored seasoned tastes way better than anything bland. The bad taste does return."

• Tak...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 24, 2023

For COVID-19 "I am on my last dose. This drug immediately made me feel better - the COVID fog lifted first. After the third day, the aftertaste was getting to me, but I stuck it out and will complete all five days. I would never want a relapse of this crap. To me, this was a miracle drug."

• All...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 4, 2023

For COVID-19 "Just tested positive yesterday. I contacted my Medicare nurseline, who set me up with a telehealth visit (as it was Sunday) and was prescribed Paxlovid because I have primary progressive multiple sclerosis. I am double vaccinated with one booster. I am three doses in and am feeling pretty good. My sore throat is gone. I am sleepy, but with MS, fatigue is a daily thing anyway, so I can cope with that. No stomach issues, no fever, and pulse ox is good. It's scary to get a positive COVID test result, especially if you're high-risk, but this drug has reduced my symptoms and my fears. Yes, the taste in my mouth is gross, but I keep some Werther's around and that helps a bunch. Hope you all are doing well."

• Reg...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 27, 2022

For COVID-19 "When COVID first hit my system, I was very ill. Nauseous, with puking, and extreme body ache, with trouble sleeping as my stomach would wake me. The Paxlovid was given to me the day after my positive test, 5 days after my initial exposure. I am also a heavy smoker. The Paxlovid seems to be doing a great job for me. Just discussing my symptoms and their severity with others has let me know that Paxlovid seems to be doing its job. Other than a not-super-pleasant taste, or even feels like your mouth is coated, nothing of noticeable side effects. Without food greatly increased the bad taste, but again my flu symptoms have been extremely mild and are roughly equal to having a bad allergy day. Aches, runny nose, I tire easily. I took as prescribed, missing one dose in the middle. It’s been 6 days since my positive test, and I am hoping I can show a negative result by tomorrow."

• imm...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 25, 2023

For COVID-19 "I am immunocompromised and have caught COVID twice. Both times I’ve used Paxlovid. It has saved me from severe illness and shut it down within two days. I am currently on day 4 of Paxlovid, and of course I have the bitter taste, I had it last time too, but that’s a small price to pay for a safe and quick recovery. I tested positive on a PCR and then started Paxlovid the same day. My symptoms got slightly worse on the second day, but after the third day, I felt practically cured. I have no more stuffy nose or sore throat or cough or anything. Truly amazing."

• Sav...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 25, 2023

For COVID-19 "Had a positive test this week on Tuesday. Felt like I had been run over by a Mack truck. Everything hurt. Coughing and sneezing galore. Woke up on Wednesday with streaks of blood in the mucus I was coughing up. The clinic prescribed a normal dose of Paxlovid because I am high risk. Yes, this medicine leaves a foul taste in your mouth, but it is worth it. I am convinced I would have been hospitalized if I had not taken it. I started feeling better after two doses. Aside from the taste, I have a queasy stomach, loose bowels, hot flashes, insomnia, and fatigue as side effects. Hard to say if some of this could be from Covid or Paxlovid. Very grateful that this drug was available to my husband and me."