Close
MyNorthwest
News
Opinion
Sports
Tools
Connect

EXPLAINER: COVID-19 pills must be taken within 5 days

FILE - This undated photo provided by Merck & Co. shows their new antiviral medication molnupiravir. COVID-19 patients have two new treatment options that can be taken at home. But that convenience comes with a catch: The pills have to be taken as soon as possible once symptoms appear. U.S. regulators authorized the pills from Pfizer and Merck late 2021. (Merck & Co. via AP, File) FILE - In this photo provided by Pfizer, a technician handles one of the company's COVID-19 Paxlovid pills. COVID-19 patients have two new treatment options that can be taken at home. But that convenience comes with a catch: The pills have to be taken as soon as possible once symptoms appear. U.S. regulators authorized the pills from Pfizer and Merck late 2021. (Pfizer via AP, File)
EXPLAINER: COVID-19 pills must be taken within 5 days