Covid-Pill Rationing Is Next Focus as U.S. Clears Merck, Pfizer

The U.S. has cleared its first two Covid-19 treatment pills, and now comes another hurdle -- deciding who should get which one.

Merck & Co.’s molnupiravir was authorized Thursday by the Food and Drug Administration for use in adults at high risk of severe cases who have no other treatment option, though it is not recommended for pregnant women. Still, the U.S. will soon have 3 million courses available.

Meanwhile, Pfizer Inc.’s Paxlovid -- authorized earlier this week --showed stronger clinical trial data with President Joe Biden hailing the pill as “a promising new treatment.” It will be available ...