Outpatient Treatment of Confirmed COVID-19 in Symptomatic Adults: A Clinical Update Based on American College of Physicians Practice Points (Version 3, published online in February 2026)
Abstract
Background: Outpatient management of coronavirus disease
2019 (COVID-19) focuses on preventing progression to severe
illness in high-risk individuals. The American College of
Physicians (ACP) provides living, rapid practice points to
guide antiviral use in symptomatic adults.
Objective: To summarize the 2026 ACP Practice Points
(Version 3) for outpatient treatment of confirmed mild-tomoderate
COVID-19.
Methods: This clinical update is based on ACP practice
points and the accompanying living rapid review,
incorporating evidence from randomized controlled trials
and observational studies conducted during the SARS-CoV-
2 Omicron variant period.