COVID pills are now available in Kansas. Here’s what to know

Two at-home COVID-19 pill treatments have been authorized by the Food and Drug Administration for patients who test positive for the coronavirus. Both Pfizer and Merck’s pills have been authorized for emergency use as omicron continues to spread, but a doctor needs to prescribe you them first.

For you to receive the pills, you must have tested positive for COVID-19 and be considered high-risk for developing severe illness as a result of the coronavirus, as determined by a prescribing doctor. The pills are designed to prevent hospitalizations and death in patients that get sick from the virus.

Adults can use either pill, but children ages 12-18 can only take Pfizer’s. Both pills should be taken as soon as you test positive and within five days of the first symptom.

Pfizer and Merck’s COVID-19 pills are available at some select pharmacies around Kansas City.

WHERE ARE THE COVID-19 PILLS?

As of Dec. 29, the COVID-19 pills are now in select Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacies in Kansas. As of Monday Jan. 3, they’re only located at Walmart in the Kansas City area.

The COVID-19 pills can be found at these local Walmart locations:

• 2300 Metropolitan Ave., Kansas City, Kansas

• 7701 Frontage Rd., Overland Park

HOW CAN I GET THEM?

With a valid prescription, they’re available at no cost to eligible patients. You can ask your healthcare provider to send your prescription to a Walmart or Sam’s Club pharmacy that has the COVID-19 pills in stock.

Your prescription is curbside pickup or drive-thru only. Do not enter the store. Stock will vary from each store, so be sure to make sure that they have the medication available.

Do you have other questions about omicron, COVID treatments or other ways to stay safe or navigate the ongoing pandemic? Let us know at kcq@kcstar.com or with the form below.