Concerns Over Paxlovid Supply Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases
As COVID-19 cases are expected to surge this summer, concerns are growing about a potential shortage of Paxlovid, a leading oral treatment for the virus. This situation could mirror the supply issues experienced during the pandemic.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), a notice was sent out on June 1, stating that pharmacies must now purchase Paxlovid directly rather than relying on government supplies. The government had previously procured and stockpiled Paxlovid during the pandemic to ensure a steady supply amid global competition for the drug. Designated pharmacies across regions had been receiving necessary quantities from health centers to fulfill prescriptions from hospitals and clinics.
However, since health insurance coverage for Paxlovid began in October of last year, the distribution model has shifted. Pharmacies now acquire the medication through wholesalers, similar to other insured drugs, and sell it to consumers. While government supplies were still available until the end of last month, this channel has now been closed as stockpiles have been depleted.
Paxlovid is prescribed primarily to individuals over 60, those aged 18 and older with underlying health conditions, and immunocompromised patients, as they are at higher risk for severe COVID-19. Hospitalized patients can receive it through in-house prescriptions, while outpatients must obtain it from pharmacies with a prescription. Despite the insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost for patients remains at 47,090 KRW.
A significant concern for pharmacies is the added step of purchasing Paxlovid from wholesalers at approximately 950,000 KRW, which may deter them from stocking the drug. Some pharmacies, like one in Jongno-gu, reported a lack of demand for Paxlovid, leading them to refrain from keeping it in stock. Similarly, a pharmacy in Seodaemun-gu expressed concerns over the high cost and inventory burden.
Currently, pharmacies can receive orders from wholesalers within 1-2 days, but this may lead to increased inconvenience for patients who need to check availability at multiple locations. Paxlovid should ideally be taken within five days of symptom onset. A representative from the Ministry of Health and Welfare stated that while it is challenging to mandate all pharmacies to stock Paxlovid during non-epidemic periods, a system is in place to ensure adequate supply in case of emergencies.
