Your Treatment Options for COVID-19 – Don’t Delay
Most people who get COVID-19 recover well at home, especially if they are vaccinated. However, some people with certain health issues are at risk of having complications from COVID-19 and therefore benefit from treatment.
If you test positive for COVID-19 contact your medical provider as soon as you can. Your provider can help you determine if you are a candidate for treatment, and can help you decide which one is best for you.
People who get COVID-19 and have the following conditions are eligible for treatment:
- Over 65
- Unvaccinated for COVID-19
- Diabetes
- Overweight
- Cancer
- Pregnancy
- HIV or other immune system conditions
- Have a substance use disorder
- Current or former smoker
- Chronic lung or kidney disease
For people at risk for complications, there are several treatments available.
What types of COVID-19 treatments are available for people who are eligible?
Oral antiviral medications (Paxlovid, Molnupiravir) are available for people with mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at risk of severe disease. These treatments can be used at home.
Intravenous monoclonal antibody treatment (Sotrovimab) is approved for people with mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at risk of severe disease. These treatments are given as a single intravenous (IV) dose.
Why should I get treatment for COVID-19?
Research shows that treatments for COVID-19 can reduce the risk of hospitalization by up to 88%.
- Paxlovid: 88% reduction
- Molnupiravir: 30% reduction
- Sotrovimab: 85% reduction
Should I take a “wait and see” approach with my COVID-19?
Not if you are eligible for treatment. Experts recommend people who are risk of complications from COVID-19 start their treatment as soon as possible, as they are more effective the earlier you start.