Treatment for COVID-19

Antiviral Pills

Two pills have received emergency use authorization to treat the virus that causes COVID-19: Pfizer’s Paxlovid and Merck’s molnupiravir.

To receive either pill, a medical provider must write you a prescription. Then a pharmacy can dispense, or provide, the pills. Use this medication locator to find a pharmacy or a Test to Treat site (which can provide the prescription and the medication at the same time). Many Community Health Centers also carry Paxlovid or molnupiravir.

Paxlovid

Paxlovid is for patients age 12 and older who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at risk of developing severe COVID-19. Pills are taken over several days and must be started within 5 days of when symptoms started. You can read more in the Paxlovid fact sheet (Spanish) and Frequently Asked Question on the EUA of Paxlovid.

Molnupiravir

Molnupiravir is for patients age 18 and older, because it can affect bone and cartilage in people still growing. Molnupiravir is for persons who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at risk of developing severe COVID-19. Pills are taken over several days and must be started within 5 days of when symptoms started. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. In addition, it is not recommended for men planning to start families. You can read more in the Fact Sheet for Patients, Parents and Caregivers (Spanish) and Frequently Asked Questions on the EUA of molnupiravir.

If you have COVID-19, ask your doctor about getting treatment with the antiviral pills. If you do not have a healthcare provider, you can call 2-1-1 to find one. You can also call a Monoclonal Antibody Regional Center at (619) 685-2500 to access Paxlovid.

Test to Treat sites offer no cost, confidential testing and treatment. Oral antiviral treatment is available to individuals who qualify, including those without insurance. Please call (888) 634-1123 to schedule an appointment at an OptumServe site for testing and treatment with Paxlovid, if eligible. You may also call SesameCare at (888) 897-1244 to schedule a no-cost telehealth visit, which includes a prescription for treatment with Paxlovid for those who are eligible.

Prevention Therapy with Evusheld

Evusheld is a monoclonal antibody combination that can be given to people who are immunocompromised or who have a history of severe allergic reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine. Evusheld must be given BEFORE a person has been exposed or infected with COVID-19. This is called pre-exposure prevention of COVID-19. Evusheld is given as an injection. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a therapeutics locator that identifies facilities that may have Evusheld. Evusheld is not available at the MARC locations.

Where to Find Treatment

MARCs—There are MARC locations throughout San Diego County, but they may change over time. Appointments are required and can only be made by phone (619) 685-2500. Current sites include:
- Family Health Centers of San Diego in Hillcrest (open Tuesday - Friday)