THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has warned members of the public against self medicating for COVID-19 using a Veterinary jab called Ivermectin to prevent against COVID-19 infection.
By Michael Gwarisa
According to MCAZ Acting Director General, Mr Richard Rukwata, their organisation has over the past few weeks been inundated by calls and inquiries concerning the use of the veterinary injection to prevent against infection from Covid-19.
In view of the growing number of inquiries and reports received concerning use of Veterinary Ivermectin injection for prevention or treatment of COVID-19, MCAZ is strongly advising members of the public, veterinary medicines general dealers and healthcare practitioners against the use of veterinary formulations in humans for prevention or treatment of COVID-19, or any other health condition.
“Veterinary Ivermectin is a veterinary product approved for the treatment and control of parasites in animals only. Veterinary Ivermectin is not indicated nor is it approved by MCAZ for use in humans. Furthermore, Section 88 of the Medicines and Allied Substance Control (General) regulations 1991, SI 150 of 1991 prohibits the use of veterinary medicines for the treatment of humans,” said Mr Rukwata.
Even though there have been researches and trails to ascertain whether the Ivermectin is effective for COVID-19 treatment and prevention, there hasn't been conclusive evidence to support the claims.
“Any researchers interested in exploring novel therapeutics for COVID-19 can only do so under clinical trial settings or i any manner after prior authorization by MCAZ. Unapproved use of medicines can lead to negative health problems, worsening of your condition or even death.
“The authority therefore recommends patients and healthcare providers use standard treatment guidelines and protocols approved by the Ministry of Health and Child Care as guided by the World Health Organization (WHO),” added Mr Rukwata.
There aslo been widespread talk from a group of Physicians calleing themeselves the Front Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC). The group — led by three physicians who posted its own review and meta-analysis of the global ivermectin literature on its website.
