COVID-19 Treatment

In Canada, oral nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid™) and intravenous remdesivir (Veklury®) are Health Canada-approved treatments for COVID-19.

Antiviral treatments should be strongly considered for individuals with COVID-19 symptoms and a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 based on positive PCR, rapid molecular, or rapid antigen test result who are at high risk of severe outcomes.

For these patients, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is the preferred first-line therapy when safe and feasible. Remdesivir is indicated where nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is contraindicated (e.g., drug-drug interaction that cannot be safely managed, medical contraindication) or when patients are beyond the treatment window for nirmatrelvir/ritonavir initiation (i.e., symptom onset > 5 days).

Individuals who may be at high risk of severe outcomes include those who are:

  • 60 years of age or older;
  • 18 years of age or older and immunocompromised;
  • Adults who have one or more comorbidity that puts them at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease; or
  • Adults with inadequate immunity, i.e., unvaccinated or under-vaccinated - review the most recent immunization guidance from National Advisory Committee on Immunization to determine if your patient is under-vaccinated

Learn how primary care providers and other health care providers can access COVID-19 treatments for patients in the community:

Review additional recommendations and resources on the use of COVID-19 treatments below.

Paxlovid

Remdesivir

Evusheld

Last Updated: September 25, 2023