The Food and Drug Administration announced an emergency use authorization (EUA) of antiviral treatments for mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease (Covid-19) on December 22 and 23rd. This wonderful news provides a useful new course of action for covid-19 infections, including breakthrough cases of omicron as well as the other variants.
These antiviral treatments will eventually be for everyone, but initially will be indicated especially for those who are at high risk of complications, including those with adrenal insufficiency. The remedies will be very similar to the use of Tamiflu which is used for acute cases of influenza.
A provider will need to verify a positive PCR, symptoms of covid, and then start the treatments within 5 days of onset. However, currently these therapies are not available but are expected to be distributed gradually in the next month, with supplies increasing over the next few months.
In the meantime, those who do have breakthrough symptomatic illness should try to get the one monoclonal antibody infusion that works for omicron, though it is difficult to get because of shortages. Regeneron and Eli Lilly both announced their antibody treatments didn’t work as effectively in diffusing omicron.
Before any treatments, patients must review their current condition with their physician, including the list of medications they are currently taking. Some drugs cannot be taken with these new antiviral treatments.
More information can be found in FDA’s announcements:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes First Oral Antiviral for Treatment of COVID-19 | FDA