SAHPRA has released a statement addressing it decision to allow controlled compassionate use of Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19.
According to the statement, there is an erroneous notion that SAHPRA “buckled under pressure” as a consequence of the court action brought by, amongst others the Afriforum regarding access to Ivermectin. SAHPRA wishes to state unequivocally that this is NOT the case.
Controlled compassionate use of Ivermectin
The court deliberations of 2 February 2021 culminated in an order that reiterates the position that SAHPRA communicated on 27 January 2021. In other words, SAHPRA’s programme of controlled compassionate use of Ivermectin remains firmly in place.
On 27 January 2021 SAHPRA held a press conference where it set out how it will ensure that there is controlled compassionate use of Ivermectin.
“SAHPRA notes the limited treatment options for the COVID-19 pandemic and is also concerned about the escalation of positive cases of COVID-19 and deaths. As SAHPRA’s focus is on the health and well-being of the South African public, SAHPRA had several meetings and consultations with the scientific and medical community to explore the options for controlled, monitored access to reliable quality ivermectin-containing products for human use with simple but essential reporting requirements. The culmination of the many engagements was the decision to implement the Programme. This move was announced at the media briefing held on 27 January 2021. SAHPRA’s timing and the action brought on by Afriforum is a mere coincidence,” indicates SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela.
Access programme
On 28 January 2021, SAHPRA published the Programme. This effectively rendered the first part of the court application moot. The access programme and the SAHPRA press statement of 27 January 2021 are accessible at:
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