COVID-19 Treatments Available for High-Risk Individuals
Treatment is available to help prevent the development of severe symptoms in people who are at high risk for being hospitalized or dying from COVID-19. We currently offer an antiviral pill (Paxlovid). and antiviral infusion (Remdesivir). Treatments for COVID-19 should not be used in place of COVID-19 vaccines, which are the best protection against the virus.
Antiviral Pill: Paxlovid
This antiviral pill stops the virus from multiplying inside your body. Paxlovid is available by prescription only.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Paxlovid, you must meet all of the following criteria.
- You test positive for SARS-CoV-2 (virus that causes COVID-19).
- You currently have COVID-19 symptoms that began within the last five days.
- You are not newly on oxygen or on an increased oxygen supply.
- You are not hospitalized.
- You are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 due to your age and certain medical conditions, including being severely immunocompromised.
Paxlovid Side Effects
Paxlovid interacts with multiple medications, which may lead to serious or life-threatening reactions. Before you are given a prescription for Paxlovid, you will need to be screened by your provider to ensure this treatment is safe for you. Many people will need to have their kidneys checked to see if they are eligible for treatment.
Antiviral Infusion: Remdesivir
Remdesivir is given as a three-day intravenous (IV) infusion in an outpatient setting. This medication stops the virus from multiplying inside your body. Due to limited availability, we are only giving this treatment to highest risk patients.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Remdesivir, you must meet all of the following criteria.
- You test positive for SARS-CoV-2 (virus that causes COVID-19).
- You currently have COVID-19 symptoms that began within the last seven days.
- You are not newly on oxygen or on an increased oxygen supply.
- You are not hospitalized.
- You are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 due to your age and certain medical conditions, including being severely immunocompromised.
Getting Screened for Outpatient COVID-19 Treatment
Treatment is only for people at highest risk for hospitalization from COVID-19. All treatment options are subject to availability. If you meet the eligibility criteria for any of the COVID-19 outpatient treatments, please call University of Utah Health at 801-213-2130 for further screening. Please have a list of your current medications before you call.
