There is a surge in the undercover sale of Ivermectin in Trinidad & Tobago, due to the overwhelming demand for an alternative or more effective Covid 19 treatment.
The interest associated with this anti-parasitic drug, is not just locally, but is reported in many countries within, Asia, North America, South America, Africa and the Caribbean.
Such high global demand for any product can result in unscrupulous entities seeking to ‘cash in’ on the product, and as with many other drugs, there is the concern of substandard manufacturing, or even fake products reaching markets worldwide.
To some, the rational solution to be adopted by authorities, would be to ban or tighten restrictions on the importation of the drug.
However, given the drug’s current popularity, measured against its risk factor, which is extremely low, a reasonable approach would be to focus on ensuring that supply is attained via trusted channels, from manufacturer to pharmacy, thereby eliminating the potentially more harmful impact of using fake products.
It’s stands to reason, if legitimate supply channels are available, contraband sources would not thrive.
Also, educating the public about the drug, it’s recommended dosage, side effects etc, will provide better reasoning among populations.
Even if it’s not included in the national Covid 19, treatment protocol, alternative literature should not be suppressed, especially if it’s originating from reputable entities such as the Frontline Covid-19 Critical Care (FLCCC) Alliance.
From inquiries made, using off-label medication which has been repurposed for treatment other than for which it was originally designed, is nothing new in the medical world.
Even Ivermectin, was registered for use in treating elephantiasis, years after its acceptance for treating River Blindness.
Ivermectin is solidly established as one of the safest most tolerable drug ever manufactured, with single patients using it for over 20 years with no reported side effects.
It’s classified by the WHO as an essential drug.
While to many, they remain uncertain as to the impact of the drug as a Covid 19 treatment, the question should be asked;
“WHAT ARE THE ASSOCIATED RISKS?”
Even if its chosen to be used alongside currently approved treatment for Covid 19, because of its high level of tolerance, no projected harm is forseen or predicted.
Maybe the models utilized in Utar Pradesh, Goa or Japan can be adopted. Don’t disobey the WHO, and include Ivermectin in you Covid 19 list of treatment medication, because to do so have its consequences.
However, continue your vaccination drive, but allow the population to have access to LEGITIMATE supply of the drug.
Many times, in a given situation, what is expedient may not necessarily be pertinent.
Examining the risks associated with implementation of restrictions as against open use, with accompanying relevant safety information, may be the best way forward.
A calculated decision is needed.