Oral Antivirals Now Available to LTC Facilities to Treat COVID-19
The federal government has launched two new initiatives, “Test to Treat” and “Long-Term Care Pharmacy Program,” to create an allocation of oral antiviral medications for utilization in vulnerable populations. Via the Long-Term Care Pharmacy Program, as of March 7, long term care (LTC) pharmacies can direct order from the federal allocation, which has significantly increased the access to these lifesaving therapies for LTC residents who are at increased risk for developing severe COVID-19. While vaccination continues to provide the best protection against COVID-19, the “Test to Treat” and “Long-Term Care Pharmacy Program” are part of a broader strategy to quickly connect eligible individuals who are at high risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 to treatments.
LTC facilities who have need for these therapeutics should reach out to their pharmacies for consultation and request the oral antivirals Paxlovid (by Pfizer) and Molnupiravir (by Merck). It is important to note that certain medications may have drug-to-drug interactions when using oral antivirals. Pharmacists should review the resident’s medication list prior to filling the prescription.