FAQ

Two COVID-19 antiviral medicines are available to treat early COVID-19 at home. When taken early on in your COVID-19 illness, they can help you stay out of hospital. They are only available for eligible people.

Who is eligible for free Covid 19 antiviral medicines?

You must have tested positive, or have had symptoms in the last five days, and are a Household Contact of a positive case.

And must also either:

• have a severely weakened immune system

• have Down syndrome

• have sickle cell disease

• be aged 75 years or older, or

• have been previously admitted to an intensive care unit directly as a result of COVID-19 and have tested positive again.

• do not require supplemental oxygen

You might also be eligible if you:

• are taking regular medicines

• are older than 57

• are of Māori or Pacific Island ethnicity

• have complex health needs or disability

• are not up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations.

You can see more detailed list of eligibility criteria on Pharmac's website here. 

What if I have a prescription from my doctor?

You must test postive before the medicines can be dispensed by a pharmacist.

You can submit your prescription to our pharmacy for dispensing and delivery here. 
 

Can I get a prescription directly from a pharmacy?

Yes, if you fit the eligibility criteria. Some pharmacists will be able to supply COVID-19 antivirals without a prescription.
 

Can I come to the pharmacy to collect my Covid-19 medicine?

Do not come into the Pharmacy if you have tested positive. If you get COVID-19 you must self-isolate for at least 7 days and cannot leave your home. If you are eligible for Covid-19 medicines, you can arrange to have them delivered by friends, whānau, or your pharmacy.

Our pharmacy has a local delivery option we can talk to you about on our consult for the supply of Covid-19 medicines.

We may also be able to deliver over-the-counter medicines to help you in your recovery from COVID-19