OFF LABEL AND INVESTIGATIONAL THERAPIES FOR COVID-19 PATIENTS Authors: Harshapriya Tanubuddhu , KOUSHIK YETTUKURI, RAMA RAO NADENDLA
ABSTRACT
here was no specific vaccine or successful treatment for this rapidly spreading and lifethreatening viral respiratory infection in December of last year when COVID-19 emerged.
Clinical trials have been planned and are underway to examine whether drugs used for
influenza, HIV and other viruses, as well as antihelmintics (ivermectin) and antimalarials
(chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine) that demonstrate in vitro antiviral activity, are successful
and safe for Covid-19. No compelling evidence exists so far that these antiviral and anti
parasitic drugs are of some interest to Covid-19. Notwithstanding the absence of clinical
efficacy evidence, these medications are commonly used for prophylaxis and treatment of
this viral infection outside of clinical trials (off label). This practice has been termed as offlabel usage and is legal provided that the same has been approved by national laws and
regulations. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic is a global issue and needs unparalleled
global solutions, as we will not allow people to die from complications related to the disease.
Keywords: Antihelmintics, Antimalarials, Anti parasitic, COVID-19, Prophylaxis Publication date: 01/11/2021 https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2021/November/MS_IJBPAS_2021_5724.pdfDownload PDFhttps://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2021/10.11.5724