Hydroxy-chloroquine has been recommended as the use for preventive treatment of healthcare workers and individuals in close contact of coronavirus patients.
The National Task Force for COVID-19, constituted by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), made this recommendation on Monday, March 25.
The Herald gathered that the task force also recommended the use of hydroxy-chloroquine for prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 infection for selected individuals, such as asymptomatic healthcare workers involved in the care of suspected or confirmed cases of coronavirus.
According to the ICMR, “Hydroxy-chloroquine is found to be effective against coronavirus in laboratory studies and in-vivo studies. Its use in prophylaxis is derived from available evidence of benefit as treatment and supported by pre-clinical data.”
Speaking on the development, ICMR Director-General Balram Bhargava said: “Hydroxy-chloroquine is recommended only for a healthcare worker who is treating a Covid 19 patient.
“Secondly, it’s recommended only for persons staying and caring for a household positive patient. They can take that only for prophylaxis, only for prevention.”
According to the drug prescription, for healthcare workers, a dose of 400 mg twice a day on day 1, followed by 400 mg once weekly for next 7 weeks, has been prescribed. The medicine has to be taken with meals, as per the report.
A dose of 400 mg twice a day on day 1, followed by 400 mg once weekly for next 3 weeks for household contacts of laboratory confirmed cases. This has to be taken with meals.