DOH open to clinical trial on Ivermectin vs COVID-19

The Department of Health (DOH) is open to conducting a clinical trial on Ivermectin if it can be used as a drug against COVID-19.

But DOH Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire reminded people who use Ivermectin not to have false hope that COVID will not hit them again.

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She said it is possible that there is another factor so it was said that they recovered after taking the said drug which is registered not for humans but for the treatment of animals such as pigs and horses.

Explaining this, it is necessary to go through a scientific process to ensure that the drug is safe and effective.

The DOH has previously said there have been no positive results in people enrolled in clinical trials for Ivermectin as a drug with COVID-19.

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Merck, the manufacturer of Ivermectin, admits that there is no scientific basis for its potential therapeutic effect on COVID-19 based on “pre-clinical” studies.

Last month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises the public against the purchase and use of Ivermectin veterinary products against COVID-19.

Also read: Who can use antigen tests in the NCR Bubble?

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DOH open to clinical trial on Ivermectin vs COVID-19

Currently, the registered Ivermectin products in the country for human use are in topical formulations under prescription use only. This is used for the treatment of external parasites such as head lice and skin conditions such as rosacea.

The registered oral and intravenous preparations of Ivermectin are veterinary products which are approved for use in animals for the prevention of heartworm disease and treatment of internal and external parasites in certain animal species.

The drug is an important part of a parasite control program for some animal species and should only be administered according to its approved indication, or as prescribed by a duly licensed veterinarian.

The public is warned against taking animal drugs, as the FDA has only evaluated their safety and efficacy in the particular species for which they are labeled. Using these products in humans can cause serious harm. Animal drugs are often highly concentrated and can be highly toxic to humans.