Previous studies have proved that commonly prescribed medications such as hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and ivermectin are ineffective in treating COVID-19. They can increase the risk of several health complications. But according to a recent study conducted by researchers from Stanford University School of Medicine, healthcare professionals in the United States prescribed these medications to a small proportion of children. They prescribed them even if national guidelines were against the use of these medications.Â
In this study, researchers used data of children who were under 18 years old. These children were diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 7, 2020 and December 31, 2022. Researchers studied this data carefully and found out prescriptions given to them within two weeks when they were diagnosed with an acute COVID-19.Â
When researchers observed the collected data, they found that HCQ and ivermectin were prescribed in 0.03% and 0.14% of cases respectively. These were prescribed even when these medications were not recommended. They also found that HCQ and ivermectin were used first time on September 12, 2020 and February 5, 2021 respectively. Researchers observed the variation in prescription rates by state. Arkansas had HCQ prescription 4 times more than the national average. The prescription rate of ivermectin was also similar in Oklahoma. Â
The results of this study showed that children who were old and had private insurance or went to an urgent care center were prescribed these medications. On the other hand, children who were living in non-urban or low-income areas were prescribed ivermectin. This data clearly shows that demographic factors were linked to a higher chance of getting these non-recommended medications. Â
Researchers of this study say that there is a need for proper guidelines to stop the prescription of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and ivermectin medications. This will improve the standard of medical care. It can also even out the treatment prices for everyone. The result of this study shows that hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and ivermectin were prescribed even if they are ineffective. So, healthcare professionals should stop prescribing these medications. Â
Reference Link:Â
Julianne E. Burns et al, Prescribing Patterns of Nonrecommended Medications for Children With Acute COVID-19, Pediatrics (2024). Â
