The Department of Health (DOH) together with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to investigate doctors who allegedly gave ‘invalid’ prescriptions of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin for use against Covid-19.
ALARMED by reports of the proliferation of “invalid” ivermectin prescriptions being given to the public, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had asked the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to investigate doctors who were issuing such prescriptions.
“Following the distribution of ivermectin capsules to different communities in Quezon City, the DOH disclosed that it has received reports of alleged invalid prescriptions being given to individuals,” a statement from DOH and FDA read.
The statement came after two party-list lawmakers led a distribution of the anti-parasitic drug for Quezon City residents.
Some photos from the event showed recipients being given prescriptions on bond paper without the name and information of the doctor.
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Reiterating the statement of other medical and pharmacist associations, the agency reminded the public that a valid prescription should contain the date of prescription, the patient’s name, age, and sex.
It should also include the name, office address, and professional regulation number of the doctor.
The DOH and the FDA said Filipinos should be vigilant and ensure they receive proper prescriptions that “will protect them and ensure accountability from the issuing professional.”
Invalid prescriptions may be reported to the PRC while adverse reaction to the prescribed drugs may be reported to the FDA at (02) 8809-5596 or pharmacovigilance@fda.gov.ph.
Health experts around the world had reiterated their opposition to the indiscriminate use of ivermectin, as there is still no strong basis for the use of the drug against Covid-19.
The DOH and the FDA said they are not against investigational drugs but utmost care must be taken when using such medication.
Meanwhile, citing FDA Director General Eric Domingo, Presidential Counsel Atty. Salvador Panelo warned that high doses of ivermectin could cause brain damage or even death.
“Kung ano na lang ang sabihin ng FDA, pakinggan na muna natin. Sila naman ang mga nakakaalam. Sila yung may mga karanasan, may expertise na tinatawag,” Panelo cautioned.
(ONT)
Tags: #Covid19, #ivermectin, #prescriptions, #FoodandDrugAdministration