No data to justify Ivermectin use in treatment of COVID-19: SAHPRA
The South
African Health Products Regulatory Authority says until there is more
scientific data available on the use of anti-parasitic drug, Ivermectin as a
treatment for COVID-19, the drug remains unapproved for human use.
It comes after police and SAHPRA officials raided Durban's Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital this week, after the authority received a tip-off that the drug had been prescribed and dispensed there.
A man was also found in possession of over R100 000 worth of Ivermectin tablets at the King Shaka International Airport.
Police say the 43-year-old who arrived into the country from Dubai was found with 2 464 tablets in his hand luggage.
“This drug has not been approved for use by humans. There is no scientific data available to justify it’s use,” SAHPRA’s Yugen Gounden said.
“Until such time that data is available ten SAHPRA will reconsider its stance. Until that time, that drug remains illegal,” Gounden added.