But that convenience comes with a catch: The pills have to be taken as soon as possible once symptoms appear. The antiviral pills aren’t for everyone who gets a positive test. The antiviral pills aren't authorized for people hospitalized with COVID-19. Some pharmacists may be able to administer a quick COVID-19 test and prescribe the pills all in one visit. The two pills work in different ways to prevent the virus from reproducing.

Source: CBC News December 27, 2021 02:29 UTC