Two congressmen advocating the use of the antiparasitic Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment distributed the drug to their constituents on Thursday and the Food and Drug Administration said "that's not a problem" as long as it's doctor prescribed.
While not cleared yet for COVID treatment, clinical trials have been set for Ivermectin, which is is also used to remove worms and lice from animals. Doctors who prescribed the drug will be held responsible for possible side effects, said FDA Director General Eric Domingo.
"As long as they have doctors there who will take a look at patients and prescribe the medicines, then that's not a problem; that's the responsibility now of the doctors," Domingo told ANC.
Partylist Representatives Mike Defensor of Anakalusugan and Rodante Marcoleta distributed Ivermectin.
"These are responsible individuals. The organizers I'm sure are taking care of everything and just as long as they make sure there's no harm coming to the patients and that everything is done safely, then that should be fine," Domingo said.
After initially warning against the use of Ivermectin to treat COVID-19, the FDA has allowed some hospitals to use it on grounds of "compassionate use."
MORE ON IVERMECTIN
Ivermectin Will Be Officially Trialed for Use on COVID Patients
What is Ivermectin and Can it Cure COVID-19?
Ivermectin May Cause 'Unpleasant Surprise' in the Toilet, Says Doctor
Defensor earlier said he would take the FDA to court if it tries to block his and Sagip Rep. Rodante Marcoleta's "Ivermectin pantry," inspired by the community pantry initiative.
“I will fight them in court. If they will again stop this initiative, I will fight them in court. Because legally, compliant kami. On two occasions during the hearings, sinabi nila na ito ay pupwedeng proseso” he said in a press briefing.
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