THE Ministry of Health has just approved the use of IL-6 receptor blockers, (Tocilizumab or Sarilumab) as a therapeutic in the treatment of patients with severe or critical Covid-19.
The ministry stated in a press release on Friday that the decision was based on the findings and recommendations of the “World Health Organization Therapeutics and Covid-19 Living Guidelines” report of July 6, 2021.
The decision was made by the ministry on Wednesday.
The Ministry stated, “The WHO has further recommended that patients with severe and critical Covid-19 should now receive both corticosteroids and IL-6 receptor blockers. These drugs are currently available in Trinidad and Tobago.”
Clinical leads throughout the Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) were notified and have received authorisation to immediately commence use of these drugs on patients with severe or critical Covid-19, when required, the ministry stated.
The ministry nooted that certain drugs have not received WHO approval for use and are therefore not authorised in the treatment of Covid-19 positive patients in the public health system at this time.
They include:
- Remdesivir;
- Lopinavir/ritonavir;
- Hydroxychloroquine; and
- Ivermectin
The ministry stated, “The Government of Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to safeguarding the health of the population and will continue to provide safe and effective WHO approved Covid-19 therapeutics and vaccines for the population.”
