FDA: Not all doctors can prescribe Ivermectin

MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned yesterday that not all doctors can prescribe Ivermectin as the mostly veterinary drug is not yet registered in the country for humans.

FDA director general Eric Domingo said only doctors in a hospital which was granted compassionate special permit (CSP) for the use of Ivermectin on COVID-19 patients can give the drug.

“It is only particular for the use of that hospital. The provisions of the CSP are very clear on that,” noted Domingo, who refused to name the hospital, citing patient’s privacy.

Ivermectin is a drug used for parasite infestations in animals, but is being experimented as a treatment for COVID-19.

In the Philippines, registered Ivermectin products are only for veterinary use.

Domingo added that based on the review conducted by experts on infectious diseases and clinical epidemiologists, there is “no strong evidence to show that it will benefit patients with COVID-19.”