FDA approves hydroxychloroquine new drug application to address COVID-19 related shortage

FDA approves hydroxychloroquine new drug application to address COVID-19 related shortage

The FDA has approved an abbreviated new drug application for hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets to address ongoing shortages of the drug sparked by its still unproven potential as a COVID-19 treatment. The application, submitted by Accord Healthcare, was approved on April 7. The approved indications are uncomplicated malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. vivax; chronic discoid lupus erythematosus and systemic lupus erythematosus in adults; and acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis in adults.

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Hydroxychloroquine and its effectiveness against COVID-19 treatment

Hydroxychloroquine and its effectiveness against COVID-19 treatment

Some politicians and doctors are sparring over whether to use Hydroxychloroquine against the new coronavirus, with many scientists saying the evidence is too thin to recommend it now. The drug Hydroxychloroquine can help tame an overactive immune system. It’s been used since the 1940s to prevent and treat malaria, and to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It’s sold in generic form and under the brand name Plaquenil in the United States. Doctors also can prescribe it off label for other purposes, as many are doing now for COVID-19.

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