COVID-19 Oral Antiviral Medications Now Available at Most Rite Aid Locations

Rhea-AI Summary

Rite Aid (NYSE: RAD) has expanded access to COVID-19 oral antiviral medications, now available at nearly 98% of its pharmacies across 17 states. Patients with a prescription can access Pfizer's Paxlovid for ages 12 and up, and Merck's Molnupiravir for ages 18 and up, enhancing treatment options for those at high risk for severe COVID-19. The Chief Pharmacy Officer emphasized Rite Aid's commitment to community health and urged vaccinations, highlighting the role of these treatments not as substitutes for vaccines but as critical aids in combating severe illness.

Positive

• Accessibility: Almost 98% of Rite Aid pharmacies now offer COVID-19 antiviral medications.
• Expanded Treatment: Availability of Paxlovid and Molnupiravir for at-risk populations enhances healthcare options.

Negative

• None.

With a prescription from their healthcare provider, Rite Aid customers have increased access to Paxlovid and Molnupiravir

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Rite Aid (NYSE: RAD) today announced that nearly 98% of its retail pharmacies across the 17 states it serves now offers FDA-authorized COVID-19 oral antiviral medications, Pfizer’s Paxlovid or Merck’s Molnupiravir, with a prescription from their healthcare provider.

“Rite Aid continues to be a vital resource for our communities as we help customers navigate the COVID pandemic, and we are proud to now have these medications widely available across our footprint,” said Karen Staniforth, Chief Pharmacy Officer at Rite Aid. “We remain as committed as ever in doing our part to help keep our communities healthy, and we strongly urge anyone who hasn’t received their primary vaccination series or booster shot to do so.”

The COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments are available to individuals who test positive, and are within five days of symptom onset, and at high risk for severe COVID-19. Paxlovid is available to individuals 12 and older, while Molnupiravir can be prescribed to those 18 and older. According to the FDA, these treatments—which must be prescribed by a physician, nurse practitioner, advanced practice registered nurse or physician’s assistants—are not substitutions for the protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines but can help reduce severe disease and hospitalization. Additionally, these medications cannot be used for pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis for prevention of COVID-19. Most Rite Aid locations will have one or the other oral antiviral medication available.

Once prescribed, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Rite Aid encourages customers filling either of these prescriptions to have a family member or friend pick up their prescription, take advantage of Rite Aid’s drive-thru locations or at-home delivery service. Customers can visit the Rite Aid store locator at riteaid.com to search locations and their prescription pick-up and delivery services. More information about the anti-viral medications can be found here.

About Rite Aid Corporation As the trusted, everyday care connector, Rite Aid drives lower health care costs through better coordination, stronger engagement, and personalized services that help you achieve whole health for life. We provide an array of whole being health products and services for the entire family through approximately 2,450 retail pharmacy locations across 17 states. Through Elixir, we provide pharmacy benefits and services to millions of members nationwide. For more information, visit www.riteaid.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220427005630/en/

Media:

Terri Hickey

773-655-3035

Press@RiteAid.com

Source: Rite Aid Corporation

FAQ

What COVID-19 medications are available at Rite Aid?

Rite Aid offers Paxlovid and Molnupiravir at nearly 98% of its pharmacies.

What is the procedure to get COVID-19 antiviral medications at Rite Aid?

Patients need a prescription from a healthcare provider to obtain Paxlovid or Molnupiravir.

Who can receive Paxlovid and Molnupiravir at Rite Aid?

Paxlovid is for individuals aged 12 and older, while Molnupiravir is for those 18 and older.

How does Rite Aid encourage safe prescription pickup for COVID-19 treatments?

Rite Aid recommends that customers have someone pick up prescriptions or use drive-thru and delivery services.

What is Rite Aid's role in the COVID-19 pandemic?

Rite Aid is committed to providing vital healthcare resources, including access to COVID-19 antiviral treatments.