The increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases in the State has created panic in the State. And the situation has drawn people’s attention to the hydroxychloroquine drug.
But how advisable is the use of this medicine?
In a bid bust the myths surrounding COVID-19, the Health and Family Welfare Department on Thursday issued an advisory regarding usage of COVID-19 medicines.
The advisory said:
Hydroxychloroquine is a prescription medicine.
People, under no circumstances, should consume any medicine without proper health checkup or prescription.
Hydroxychloroquine is prescribed only for asymptomatic healthcare workers, household contacts and laboratory confirmed cases.
In a combination with azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine is an off-label indication in patients with severe disease and who require ICU attention.
Anyone who’s making its illegal sale will attract legal action under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940.