GEORGE TOWN – Despite warnings by Malaysian health authorities against the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19, 25-tablet bottles are being sold for about RM300 here.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned against the use of ivermectin at this point in time as clinical trials are ongoing. However, sale of the tablets is brisk as people are stocking up after it was marketed as a Covid-19 prevention medication.
Sources told The Vibes that the doctors selling ivermectin to the public are “brave enough to go against the WHO”, making claims the tablet are safe to consume as it is “human grade”.
The label on the bottle also alleges that it contains supplements such as vitamin D and melatonin.
Penang Medical Practitioners’ Society president Dr Parmjit Singh said that although selling ivermectin is not illegal, there are specific guidelines by the Health Ministry that must be adhered to.
Medical doctor and Johor DAP committee member Dr Boo Cheng Hau told The Vibes that those selling ivermectin pills at RM300 are profiteering.
“It is very dangerous because there is a misconception that it works, but there might be side effects, like liver damage. They might be taking ivermectin instead of getting vaccinated. The medication has not been proven to be effective.
“Whoever provides this medication can be charged in court under the Medical Act – even doctors. And these doctors can be struck off the registry or be suspended.
“It is not just illegal; it is unethical. What you dispense to your patients must be evidence-based medicine.”
Boo said non-medical doctors dispensing it for Covid-19 could be deemed as engaging in a criminal act.
He said although there are ivermectin brands that have been made for human consumption, it is primarily to treat parasite infections in countries in Africa, but not presently in Malaysia.
“It is not approved or registered to be used against Covid-19.
“Clinical trials registered under the MoH can carry out the use of ivermectin, and the patients who receive it will also know that they are under trial, and that it may not work.
“To use it, it has to be approved, and approvals for trials are limited. Plus, it should not be something doctors profit from.
“I think health officers should take action against those who are misleading and deceiving the public by encouraging them to take ivermectin – they should be charged in court,” he said.
Ivermectin has attracted international attention after several case studies and clinical trials showed promising results in treating Covid-19. However the WHO does not recommend it for use outside clinical trials.
In June, the MoH allowed hospitals to apply to the Drug Control Authority to trial ivermectin for off-label use. – The Vibes, September 7, 2021
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