There are two antiviral medications that have been issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the U.S. FDA: Pfizer’s Paxlovid and Merck’s molnupiravir. The FDA has since approved Paxlovid to treat COVID-19 in adults. Paxlovid and molnupiravir are available for patients by prescription only. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after diagnosis of COVID-19 and within five days of symptom onset. Prescriptions can be obtained from your health care provider or through the Test to Treat program. Please speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about these treatments. Additional information about eligibility and course of treatment is available on the IDOH COVID-19 Treatment Information webpage.
Antiviral medication for COVID-19 is not a substitute for vaccination in individuals for whom COVID-19 vaccination and a booster dose are recommended. The CDC recommends that people stay up to date with their vaccinations and get boosted when eligible. The CDC has guidance for everyone 6 months and older based on age and medical condition.