UNDERSTAND: Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine in the fight against COVID-19

 

Pharmacist warns that these medications are indicated for treating diseases such as Malaria and Lupus, and despite advances in their use against the Coronavirus, there is still no scientific proof; therefore, people should not self-medicate

The world is racing against time in the search for medications that can treat COVID-19. Research has been conducted to investigate the action of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine, whether associated with Azithromycin or not, and the results are promising. Among them, a decrease in viral load and hospitalization time were mentioned, important factors in the battle against the disease. There is still no scientific evidence, but Anvisa has approved a clinical study at Albert Einstein Hospital and authorized the medical prescription of Chloroquine for severe patients. But in the meantime, pharmacist Márcio Mello from Pharmapele Vila Velha warns that preventive measures continue to be hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and social distancing. "Self-medication can pose a serious health risk and is therefore contraindicated. We must wait for the results of the research and the approval from the competent authorities," he explains. [caption id="attachment_27146" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Pharmacist Márcio Mello from Pharmapele Vila Velha[/caption] The pharmacist also emphasizes that in cases of patients who continuously use Hydroxychloroquine, for example, according to Anvisa's resolution and Ordinance 344, the medication can continue to be used, and a carbonated prescription is required to manipulate it. "This week we received a replenishment of the raw material. Hydroxychloroquine, like Chloroquine, is the basis of several medications indicated for treatments such as rheumatism and skin problems, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Malaria, among others," he clarifies. Pharmapele Vila Velha - Avenida Jair de Andrade, 561, loja 1, Itapoã, Vila Velha. Tel: (27) 3149-9869. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 7 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm. Instagram: @pharmapelevilavelha