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# Pharmacists Can Prescribe Paxlovid: FDA
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/pharmacists-can-prescribe-paxlovid-fda/
- Published: 2022-07-11T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T17:51:08.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5152227

FDA has revised the emergency use authorization (EUA) for Pfizer’s Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir) to authorize state-licensed pharmacists to prescribe the Covid-19 treatment to eligible patients with certain limitations to ensure appropriate patient assessment and prescribing. An agency [statement](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-pharmacists-prescribe-paxlovid-certain-limitations?ref=fdaweb.com) says that allowing pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid could improve access to the drug for some patients who are at high risk for severe Covid-19.

The statement says that under the limitations outlined in the revised EUA, state-licensed pharmacists should refer patients for clinical evaluation with a doctor, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant if any of four specified conditions apply.

Meanwhile, *Endpoints News* [reports](https://endpts.com/fda-says-it-wont-allow-state-licensed-pharmacists-to-prescribe-mercks-lagevrio/?ref=fdaweb.com) the agency said it would not permit pharmacists to prescribe Merck’s Covid-19 antiviral Lagevrio (molnupiravir). The newsletter says FDA informed it the decision was based on several factors, including the drug’s side effects profile and the need for provider-patient consultation before prescribing Lagevrio.

The decision to allow state-licensed pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid was criticized by the American Medical Association, which said that Paxlovid is not appropriate for every patient and prescribing it requires a knowledge of the patient’s medical history and follow-up care to determine whether the patient is improving. Association president **Jack Resneck** said in a [statement](https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-statement-paxlovid-prescribing?ref=fdaweb.com) that such care involves “requirements far beyond a pharmacist’s scope and training.”