Originally Posted by
corporate-wage-slave
Yes, it is very much the case that given where we are now with Omicron and related variants, it's a balance. Paxlovid and the alternatives come with potential side effects - nausea and diarrhea specifically - and that's one of the various aspects to the balance. Hence it's really a good idea to have an informed conversation with a clinician on whether to have this medication or not. In most cases - in a decent sized population - it's a "not". But some people remain at high risk from the virus and so there is an argument for accepting potential side effects, which while unpleasant are not going to be fatal.
The side effects and potentially severe interactions with other drugs is precisely why it is prescription only in most countries. If you are in a high risk category, ask your doctor either beforehand or when you think you need it. But keeping some "just to have" seems unnecessary or even dangerous for most people.
When I travel I just have some tylenol and sudafed or similar/generic versions, the latter specifically because nasal congestion on flights can get extremely painful. Anything else I'd just get at my destination if I need to.