Sahpra Approves Use Of Ivermectin Under Controlled Circumstances

…questions have been asked about the potency of the drug…

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) has nodded approval for the use of Ivermectin to treat COVID-19 patient.

This announcement is coming following Dr Pierre Kory’s testimony before the US Senate Homeland security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Dr Pierre, who is a pulmonary and critical care specialist at Aurora St Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee, described Ivermectin as a “wonder drug” that can cure COVID-19.

However, questions have been asked about the potency of the drug, as there is no scientific data that backs it up.

Announcing in a press conference held in collaboration with the National Press Club on Wednesday, Sahpra chief executive Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela said: “We at Sahpra have considered all of this, and the approach that we will be taking going forward is that we will facilitate a controlled, compassionate, access programme for Ivermectin”.

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“This does not mean that our position changes around the lack of availability of scientific data, but we had to as a regulator have very in-depth discussions around the context which we find ourselves in with the pandemic with limited options,” She continued.

“We hope the controlled access will enable us that the product is used properly and limit the black market”

She added that “It’s important to note that Sahpra has listened and heard what people have been saying about Ivermectin. The programme will be open to all patients. We will review every application as it comes through,”

She adjudged that healthcare professionals would have access to the drug soon.

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