29 Mar SAHPRA has NOT authorised Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19
29 March 2021
The SABC placed an erroneous report that “SAHPRA has agreed to allow the use of Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19”. This is grossly untrue, misleading to the public and irresponsible and could have dire consequences.
The position of SAHPRA remains steadfast. Ivermectin may be prescribed and dispensed to patients without awaiting Section 21 authorisation, but is still subject to receiving section 21 authorisation, informed consent and all reporting requirements normally required under Section 21.
SAHPRA has registered Soolantra cream which is for topical treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory lesions of papulopustular rosacea in adult patients.
Soolantra cream is not for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19.
The effect of the registration of the Soolantra cream is that compounding is allowed in accordance with the provisions of section 14(4) of the Medicines Act such as for specific patients, on the basis of a prescription by a medical practitioner.
In amplification of the above, unregistered Ivermectin-containing finished pharmaceutical products may only be accessed under SAHPRA’s Ivermectin Controlled Compassionate Use Programme Guideline through the authorised suppliers of such products.