At Physicians Immediate Care, we test for COVID and offer treatment at the same time. Early treatment intervention for COVID is vital because antiviral medicines for COVID-19 must be started within five days of a positive test or symptoms. Our patients can get tested, receive a physical exam, and receive COVID treatment, if recommended, all in one visit.
COVID TREATMENTS
Antiviral Drugs
Paxlovid
What is Paxlovid?
The oral antiviral drug by Pfizer is called Paxlovid. Paxlovid has been shown to lower the risk of hospitalization and death by 88% in people who are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness. Physicians Immediate Care providers will prescribe Paxlovid when needed.
Can I take Ibuprofen or Tylenol with Paxlovid?
Yes, it is typically safe to take Ibuprofen or Tylenol while on a 5-day course of Paxlovid. However, our medical providers will provide this information after they evaluate your health history.
Molnupiravir
Molnupiravir has also been shown to lower the risk of hospitalization and death in people who are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness; studies have shown a 30% reduction in hospitalizations/deaths.
Paxlovid and Molnupiravir are not authorized to prevent illness. The best way to prevent a COVID infection is to be vaccinated against COVID, including boosters.
Over-the-counter medications for COVID
Fever & Body Aches, or Headache from COVID
To treat a fever from COVID, or general body aches or headaches, our providers usually recommend taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), depending on a patient’s specific health history.
COVID Cough
We recommend the use of a vapor rub to help relieve coughs and a cool air humidifier to decrease nasal congestion. Be aware of any chest tightness or congestion, trouble breathing, or shortness of breath. These symptoms may indicate a more serious issue and must be evaluated by your primary care physician or stop by Physicians Immediate Care. Some coughs may require a prescription to help ease the severity of the cough.
COVID Pneumonia Treatment
After a thorough exam which includes a chest x-ray and review of a patient’s blood oxygen level, if it is determined that you have COVID pneumonia, our medical team may refer you to the ER for treatment. For mild symptoms, a patient may be prescribed antibiotics.
Long COVID Treatment
Our medical team can perform an exam to determine if a patient is suffering from Long COVID symptoms. Long COVID, also known as post-COVID, is a broad range of health problems people may have after having a COVID infection. COVID can damage the brain, lungs, or heart, which may result in long-term health problems. A referral may be advised to a long COVID treatment center.
What to do if you think you have COVID
If you think you may have COVID-19, walk-in or reserve your time at Physicians Immediate Care; if our medical provider deems you are eligible, depending on the patient’s health history, age and risk levels, and symptom burden, you may receive a prescription for antiviral treatment.