It is true that the whole world is spinning around with COVID-19. Though there was a time when the whole world thought that there were chances that only the fittest might survive, the advent of vaccines has proved it wrong. Still, the novel Coronavirus and its newer variants are beating up many to death. When many facts are hidden or unknown, it is not wise for an individual to choose medications on their own or by just believing a myth.
Does Chloroquine Benefit COVID Patients?
An anti-malarial drug called Chloroquine was said to be a treatment for COVID-19, whereas, till this minute, no actual medication is known to be found that can cure COVID. But, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) organization submitted a statement to clarify that Chloroquine is not the right choice to pause COVID-19. Therefore, always check that the government has approved a drug before using it.
What Is Chloroquine?
Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine are antimalarial drugs. It was discovered in 1934. They are also helpful in the treatment of lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine has lesser toxic effects than Chloroquine. This drug was tested for COVID-19 because of the drug’s antiviral property, which was described in a research article in 2003.
But the World Health Organization (WHO) has already claimed that Hydroxychloroquine or Chloroquine shows no effects in COVID patients. Based on their studies on Chloroquine as a preventive treatment for COVID-19, WHO has declared that Chloroquine is ineffective against illness, hospitalizations, and death due to COVID. They neither reduce deaths nor help anyone with moderate COVID.
Toxicity of Chloroquine:
There are many side effects of this drug. The toxic effects are mainly pertaining to heart-related health issues, which might be altered heart rhythm and heart failure. It is also known to cause irreversible blindness. This drug is strongly not recommended to patients who are suffering from some retinal diseases. It is also known to reduce blood glucose levels and decrease blood cells count. Physical weakness might also be seen in a few cases. Mental health effects such as increased suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression might arise. The FDA assessed the usage of Chloroquine in COVID patients on July 1, 2020, and it found reports of major heart rhythm difficulties as well as other safety concerns, such as blood and lymph system disorders, renal injuries, and liver problems and failure.
India and Chloroquine:
India, being a highly populated country, is getting obsessed with pharmacies. Drug Chloroquine is a generic drug that is available at a low cost. Since the media is overwhelmed with Chloroquine controversy, there is little or relatively no news about the drug combination that is actually significant in cutting the mortality rate in confirmed cases of Coronavirus patients.
Still, there is a wider ray of hope for India. The World Health Organization made a positive criticism on the nation of India, stating, “India led the world in eradicating smallpox and polio, so India has a tremendous capacity,” said J Ryan during a daily press meet on COVID-19.
Antibiotics In COVID:
COVID-19 will not go away more quickly with antibiotics. Antibiotics should not be taken unless the doctor instructs the affected individual to use them.
Conclusion:
Using medicines without a physician’s advice and when not indicated can pose serious health risks. If someone has doubted that they might have contracted COVID, they should not panic. They should isolate themselves. Additinally, they should contact nearby medical center and seek appropriate treatment. Self-medication is a definite “No.” Prevent COVID and related complications by getting fully vaccinated and taking the booster dose when eligible.
