What medication should I take for COVID-19? Complete guide to COVID-19 medications

What medication should I take for COVID-19? Complete guide to COVID-19 medications

You may wonder what medications to take when infected with COVID-19. As of 2024, the drugs used to treat COVID-19 focus on alleviating symptoms and preventing disease progression. First, antiviral agents can be considered.

Paxlovid and molnupiravir are representative, and in particular, Paxlovid is frequently prescribed for high-risk patients. The important point is that taking the medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear is most effective.

Next, there are antipyretics and pain relievers. The medication known as acetaminophen, commonly called Tylenol, is used to reduce fever and relieve pain. This medication is relatively safe, but overdose can cause liver damage, so it is important to stick to the prescribed dosage.

In cases of severe progression, corticosteroids may be used. Dexamethasone is a typical example, as it suppresses the immune response to prevent disease progression. However, it is not recommended for mild cases and must be prescribed by a doctor. For severe patients, anticoagulants may also be prescribed to prevent blood clots. This also requires management by medical professionals.

In cases where the immune response occurs excessively, immunomodulators can be used. Tocilizumab is an example, helping to prevent complications such as pneumonia.

Finally, for symptom relief, you can use cough suppressants or gargles to alleviate symptoms such as cough or sore throat. It is important that all medications are chosen according to the individual's health condition and symptoms, and especially, COVID-19 treatments must be used only after consulting with healthcare professionals.

Taking medication arbitrarily can be dangerous, so it is best to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and prescription when symptoms appear.