COVID-19 Oral Antivirals

The risk qualifiers include:

• Residing in residential aged care.
• Living with a disability accompanied by multiple health conditions and/or frailty (not limited to supported accommodation).
• Neurological conditions such as stroke, dementia, or demyelinating disorders like multiple sclerosis or Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
• Chronic respiratory conditions, including COPD or moderate to severe asthma.
• Obesity or diabetes (type I or II requiring medication).
• Heart conditions like heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies.
• Kidney failure or cirrhosis.
• Living in remote areas with limited access to advanced healthcare.

Moderate to severe immunocompromise includes certain conditions and recent treatments that can affect the immune system. If you test positive for COVID-19 and meet these criteria, you may qualify for antiviral treatments

These conditions include:

• Blood cancers or specific red blood cell disorders like thalassemia or sickle cell disease
• Being a transplant recipient
• Primary or acquired immunodeficiency (such as HIV)
• Chemotherapy or whole-body radiotherapy in the past 3 months
• High-dose corticosteroids or pulse corticosteroid therapy within the past 3 months
• Recent immunosuppressive treatments in the last 3 months
• Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody treatment within the past 12 months
• Conditions like cerebral palsy or Down Syndrome
• Congenital heart disease
• Living with a disability that involves multiple health conditions and/or frailty

Australia currently offers two COVID-19 antiviral treatments: Lagevrio® by Merck and Paxlovid® by Pfizer. Both medications are approved by the TGA and can be accessed through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). These antivirals are available in tablet or capsule form, or they can be administered intravenously by a healthcare professional if necessary.

The medication can help reduce the severity of COVID-19 if taken within the first five days after contracting the virus. Taking antiviral treatment medications promptly can lessen the risk of severe outcomes by preventing the virus from multiplying in the body.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised that you avoid oral COVID-19 treatments. Instead, ensure that you stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations. For individuals with severe kidney or liver disease, it is essential to consult a doctor about alternative oral treatment options.

Yes, antiviral medication for COVID-19 can be delivered. After receiving a prescription, you can arrange for your medication to be delivered to your home with Hola pharmacy delivery service, available across Australia. This flexibility ensures that you can access the necessary treatment quickly and conveniently, especially if you are feeling unwell.