Ivermectin black propaganda deplored
Claims that Ivermectin is only for animal use and unfit for human consumption is nothing but mere propaganda.
Dr. Benigno Agbayani Jr., president of Concerned Doctors and Citizens of the Philippines said the drug have undergone 26 clinical testings already contrary to reports that there are only six.
“It is only a black propaganda,” said Agbayani, pointing out that the drug has been in use for 25 years in other countries mostly third world ones.
Agbayani mentioned that in Peru it was used against the virus but when it’s use was lifted, the case of Covid-19 in the country surged.
He said the so-called compassionate permit given to two hospitals and the go signal to some drug companies to do compounding of the drug is not enough.
Agbayani said that in the eighties, the drug was given free to Africa.
“If those opposing its use will say that it is dangerous, why is it that it is being used in many countries to treat illnesses of humans?” he asked
The problem, according to Agbayani is that many countries are dependent on the United States because they cannot earn big money from Ivermectin since it is an affordable drug and only poor countries are using it for treatment of their ailment.
“The problem is many countries are dependent on the US policy because they see Ivermectin as small profit thus they will go to big profit medicines. But since we are a poor country we should force ourselves to go by the rich countries,” Agbayani added.
He said the current situation is that only one percent is being given attention and also one percent to moderate infection which should be 98 percent and those whom the patient has contact with should also be treated.
Agbayani maintained that they are being allowed to prescribe off label to those who want to buy the drug.
He explained that big drug companies will not endorse Ivermectin because it was given by a first world country a few years back free to Africa and they have new anti-Covid-19 drugs that is in the pipeline.
In a related development, Senator Panfilo Lacson said he views with an open mind the use of Ivermectin as a possible treatment and prophylaxis for Covid-19.
Like many Filipinos, Lacson expressed confusion on the medication’s effectiveness brought about by the conflicting statements of critics and supporters.