[co-author: Vicky Vlontzou]
Following the publication of a retrospective analysis published by the medical journal “The Lancet” the AFMPS recalls the risks associated with the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. The analysis did not show any benefits to patients with COVID-19 and revealed the occurrence of cardiovascular adverse events.
On 25 May 2020, the AFMPS published a note in which it recalled the risks associated with the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. The note followed a retrospective analysis published by the medical journal "The Lancet" on 22 May 2020. The analysis did not show any benefits to patients with COVID-19 and revealed the occurrence of cardiovascular adverse events.
The experts who prepared the retrospective analysis analysed data from more than 96,000 patients with COVID-19 worldwide in 671 different hospitals. Approximately 15,000 patients were treated with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine with or without microlide. In this group, the number of deaths was higher (one in six) compared to that of the group, which was not treated with these products (one in eleven).
The AFMPS recalls the risk of heart rhythm disorders associated with the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. The AFMPS had warned about these adverse events in its previous announcements on 1 April 2020 and 24 April 2020.
The AFMPS also recalls that clinical data concerning the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine remain inconclusive. Treatments with these medicinal products should only be initiated in hospitals and in accordance with the Sciensano recommendations.
Patients using hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for joint and/or skin disease or any other indication other than COVID-19 are advised to continue their treatment.
The AFMPS encourages patients to report suspected adverse reactions through the following web site: www.notifieruneffetindésirable.be.
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