COVID-19 Treatments: Transition to Commercial Marketplace

The federal government has moved COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments, Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir packaged with ritonavir) and Lagevrio (molnupiravir), to the commercial market. To stay informed about upcoming milestones and timelines, refer to the following information:

Understanding COVID-19 Treatments

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and are at higher risk of severe illness may benefit from available COVID-19 therapeutics (medications). These treatments can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. If you test positive and are at higher risk, contact your healthcare provider promptly, as early treatment yields the best results. Your healthcare provider will assess if COVID-19 medications are suitable for you.

It's essential to note COVID-19 treatments/medications are not substitutes for prevention. Vaccination, staying up to date, and practicing preventive measures remain recommended for everyone eligible.

Test to Treat Program: Free and Easier Access to Treatment

The Test to Treat program offers expedited access to lifesaving COVID-19 treatments. If you test positive within five days of experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have symptoms and are in close contact with someone recently diagnosed with COVID-19, you can consult a healthcare provider (either on-site or through telehealth). If eligible, you can receive a prescription for an oral antiviral treatment and have it filled at the same location. This service is available for uninsured patients at no out-of-pocket cost at participating locations.

  • Physical Location Visit: Check the Test to Treat locator site to find a nearby location for eligibility assessment.
  • Virtual Consultation: Utilize the free telehealth service for eligibility assessment. If you test positive at home, consult a healthcare provider by phone or computer. You'll receive a prescription for free home delivery or pharmacy pickup if eligible.

What are Oral Antivirals?

Oral antiviral treatment helps your body fight COVID-19 by stopping the SARS-CoV-2 virus (which causes COVID-19) from multiplying. By getting treatment, you could have less severe symptoms and lower the chances of your illness worsening and needing hospital care. Antiviral therapies for COVID-19 are available for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms, who are not in the hospital, who have had symptoms for five days or less, and who are at high risk for severe illness.

For more information, see What Are Oral Antivirals information sheet (PDF) | Available in additional languages.

Resources for COVID-19 Therapeutics Patient Assistance Programs (PAP)

Uninsured individuals can seek services at several clinics, including Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) such as:

Uninsured individuals seeking COVID-19 therapeutics or other health care coverage can also access Medicaid enrollment and healthcare marketplace enrollment.

Additional Resources

For more information about COVID-19 therapeutics, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's COVID-19 Therapeutics page.