Two congressmen promoting the use of ivermectin as an anti-COVID-19 drug, which was first identified as an anti-parasitic drug in animals, distributed it to Quezon City residents.
Despite the threat that they could be arrested, Anakalusugan Reps. Mike Defensor and Rescue Rep. Rodante Marcoleta gave ivermectin to more than 35 residents of Barangay Matandang Balara, Quezon City on Thursday.
One of the recipients of ivermectin was Fernando Leonardo who allegedly watched YouTube videos about its benefits.
“Malaking tiwala ko, nagtiwala nga ‘yung ibang bansa eh tayo pa… Walang mawawala,” he said.
Four doctors prescribed the alleged anti-COVID-19 during the legislators’ program.
“We are in the middle of an emergency situation, hindi na puwedeng ‘yung technicalities… If this is working why not use it? I-waive mo muna ‘yung technicalities,” said Dr. Allan Landrito.
This is despite the fact that there is no authorization from the Food and Drug Administration that ivermectin can be a drug against COVID-19. The FDA has only issued compassionate special permits for five hospitals.
2 lawmakers distribute ivermectin in Quezon City
According to the FDA, there is no problem if the doctor prescribes it.
“I believe they will be sourcing it (ivermectin) from a licensed compounding pharmacy. And as long as they have doctors there who will take a look at patients and prescribe the medicines then that’s not a problem. That’s the responsibility now of the doctors,” said FDA director general Eric Domingo.
According to the barangay, the event is coordinated with them.
Other experts say there are still insufficient grounds to say that ivermectin is effective against COVID-19.
“We are not closing the door on ivermectin. What we are saying is there is still insufficient evidence… It means you may or may not use the drug but it is your responsibility to explain to the patient the status of the evidence,” said Dr. Marissa Alejandria, member of COVID-19 technical advisory under DOH.
President Rodrigo Duterte has instructed the FDA to conduct local clinical trials for the efficacy of ivermectin in Filipinos with COVID-19.
Defensor, on the other hand, complained of the alleged harassment of those who promote the drug.
Visit our Facebook page for more news updates.