What to know
This page is part of a group of easy-to-read pages about COVID-19.
Summary
There is medicine you can take if you get very sick from COVID-19.
Taking medicine can help you stay out of the hospital.
Call your doctor right away if you get sick with COVID-19.
It is important to take the medicine right away.
Who should take medicine for COVID-19?
Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms.
You can buy medicines from the drug store if you feel bad.
These medicines include Tylenol, Motrin, and Advil.
Some people may get very sick from COVID-19.
Medicines from the drug store are not enough.
A doctor can prescribe COVID-19 medicine for these people.
Medicine helps keep these people from going to the hospital.
These medicines include Paxlovid and Lagevrio.
Who may get very sick from COVID-19?
People who are 50 years old or older may get very sick.
People with disabilities may get very sick.
People with weak immune systems may get very sick.
People with serious health problems may get very sick.
Pregnant people may get very sick.
People who have not gotten a COVID-19 shot may get very sick.
If this sounds like you and you get COVID-19, call your doctor right away.
How can I get medicine?
If you test positive for COVID-19, ask your doctor about medicine.
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines.
Your doctor will help decide if COVID-19 medicine is right for you.
You can also visit a "Test to Treat" location.
These locations offer testing and medicine all in one place.
If treatment is right for you, you can get medicine right then.
Call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489) to find a location near you.