COVID-19 Antiviral Medications: What You Need to Know

There are several medications authorized to treat COVID-19. If you test positive for COVID-19, talk to your primary care provider about treatment options right away.

• Antiviral medications can reduce your symptoms and help you manage your illness.

• Most importantly, these medications can reduce the chances of severe illness, hospitalization, or death for older adults (those 50 and older with risk increasing the older you are), people who are unvaccinated, and those with certain medical conditions, such as a weakened immune system.

• COVID-19 antiviral medications must be taken as soon as possible after diagnosis to be effective, so contact your primary care provider right away if you test positive, including if you test positive on an at-home rapid test.

• Your healthcare provider will determine which treatment, if any, is right for you and help you fill a prescription at a convenient, local pharmacy.

• Again, treatment must be started within days after you first develop symptoms to be effective, so do not delay in discussing antiviral treatment options with your doctor.

Learn more about specific COVID-19 treatments and medications at the Centers for Disease Control website.