Coronavirus has taken over the world in a matter of a few months only and to be honesty nobody has no idea what to do. Alongside all affected countries, Pakistan is also speeding up their researches to find out where we can get hold of the situation. Good news is that Pakistan has started the largest COVID-19 drug trial.
Prime Minister’s Task Force on Science and Technology announced a large scale clinical trial to find out the potential treatments for COVID-19 sufferers.
COVID-19 (PROTECT) Drug Trial
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has allowed getting their hands on the raw materials used to make chloroquine. Chloroquine is a drug that everyone believes has worked a little in treating COVID patients.
It is said that the combination of chloroquine phosphate or hydroxychloroquine medicines would have good results for treating coronavirus patients. The proper testing of this combination will start in next 15 days. After the French government’s attempt for human trial, Pakistan too has started it to prove these medicines could battle the virus.
According to a very recent study, a hydroxychloroquine combination and an antibiotic could be effective in treating COVID-19. There is a possibility of a shortage of these medicines after a trial is run. Government is working hard to make sure it remains available. The Pakistani government is coordinating with the international community to improve the country’s research ability.
The researchers have mentioned that chloroquine has been proved affective but still needs a lot of trials before it is confirmed as a treatment.
DRAP and UHS
The University of Health Sciences (UHS) and Drug Regulatory Authority Pakistan are teaming up to run trials and Vice-Chancellor UHS Dr Akram would also lead it for the vaccine. Scientists and virologists around the world including Pakistani scientists have been trying really hard to develop a vaccine or cure. The COVID-19 drug trial is happening!
Drug Trial Approval
A few days ago, Pakistan’s National Institute of Blood Diseases and Bone Marrow Transplantation (NIBD) confirmed the official approval received. NIBD has also secured a research grant from a pharmaceutical company. Mentioning that the NIBD’s chairman and haematologist Dr Tahir Shamsi was one of the first to suggest plasma therapy.
NIBD Karachi and UHS Lahore, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Science (Jamshoro) and Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority are collaborating to start plasma therapy under the supervision of scientists.
PROTECT Trial evaluates the therapeutic effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine alone and in combination with other drugs.
A Word From Marham
We want you to stay safe and get all the required medical help at home. Do you want to know how? Marham offers online video consultation with any doctor all over Pakistan. Grab your mobiles and dial 03111222398 to book you session now.
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