The World Health Organisation (WHO) is to probe the use of Ivermectin for Covid-19 treatment after ’promising’ results in trials.
The WHO on Thursday confirmed that an independent panel of international experts will investigate the anti-parasitic drug.
Several videos have emerged this week on social media of allegedly Covid-postive Capetonians taking the drug and claiming improvement within minutes.
The WHO said: “Due to new results coming in from various trials, within the following days a systematic review will be conducted for an independent panel of experts to consider the full evidence available.
“We are closely following the research on Ivermectin, which has shown promising results in some trials.
“All changes to WHO recommended treatments follow this expedited but comprehensive review, and are shared with the public at the earliest possible time,” the organisation said.
In South Africa over 500 doctors and health professionals have petitioned President Cyril Ramaphosa and the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) to fast-track clinical trials and consideration of Ivermectin’s use on humans.
Durban general practitioner, Dr. Naseeba Kathrada, who compiled the petition said:“The health minister said that he has seen the letter. I’m very hopeful that I am going to get a response because I am sending the email again with over 500 names.”
According to Sahpra, Ivermectin is registered by the Department of Agriculture for use in animals.
Some health professionals maintain that there is growing evidence for Ivermectin’s use against Covid-19.
American pulmonary and critical care specialist Pierre Kory, the president of the Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC), said: “It’s not that I think that Ivermectin can help people. I know it helps people.
“The data is unmistakable and consistent. It shows quicker time to viral clearance, lower viral loads, faster times to recovery and lowered mortality rates.”