Chloroquine; a medicine for COVID-19 patients only under physician advice

COLOMBO (News 1st):- A decision has been made to provide COVID-19 patients with Chloroquine, a medicine used for Malaria patients, only upon the advice of a physician, when required. The Ministry of Health said that Chloroquine cannot be used to prevent a person from being affected by COVID - 19. Accordingly, Director General of Health Services Dr Anil Jasinghe urged the public to refrain from going in search of this medicine. The Ministry of Health said that this medicine would be provided at hospitals for affected patients only when required upon the advice of a doctor. The State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation has commenced the production of this medicine to supply it without any shortage. Speaking on the matter, Chairman of the State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation, Dr Uthpala Indrawansa said;

"Specialist doctors have instructed to provide this medicine only for those affected by COVID - 19. Do not use this medicine without the advice of a specialist doctor. This medicine has been used to cure Malaria. The production of this medicine has recommenced now after it was stopped in 2013"

The decision taken by the Food and Drug Administration body of the US drew the attention of several countries. Accordingly, a team of specialist doctors appointed by the Director General of Health Services had decided to provide this medicine to COVID - 19 patients. Dr Uthpala Indrawansa further says;

"Chloroquine, which is used in treating malaria patients has been recommended to treat only those affected by COVID - 19. Accordingly, the Medical Supplies Division received an order of 500,000 tablets for a day. We are producing 80 other pharmaceutical drugs in addition to Chloroquine. We will supply them without any shortage."

The Health Ministry warned that strict action will be taken against pharmacies which sell this drug without a valid prescription from a specialist doctor.