Revised DGHS Covid guidelines drops these medicines for mild and asymptomatic patients
DGHS has prohibited the use of drugs such as hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, doxycycline, zinc, multivitamins, etc. to asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic Covid-19 patients
The Union health ministry’s directorate general of health services (DGHS) has revised Covid-19 treatment guidelines and dropped all medicines, except antipyretic and antitussive drugs, for asymptomatic and mild covid-19 patients.
DGHS advisory has prohibited the use of drugs such as hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, doxycycline, zinc, multivitamins, etc. to asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic Covid-19 patients.
The revised guidelines were issued on May 27, by the DGHS. It has removed all drugs that doctors prescribed even to asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic Covid-19 patients such as hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, doxycycline, zinc, multivitamins, etc.
It also mentions that people can take antipyretic and anti-tussive for symptomatic relief, and inhalation of budesonide at a dose of 800 mcg twice a day for 5 days for a cough. The patient may have to be investigated further if symptoms persist or deteriorate.
The guidelines also discouraged medical practitioners from prescribing unnecessary tests such as CT scans.
No medication is required for asymptomatic cases as per the revised guidelines.
The comprehensive guidelines have also stressed overall wellbeing. It has listed out the importance of a healthy balanced diet with proper hydration and asked patients and their families to stay connected and engage in positive talks through phone, video calls, etc.
The guidelines suggest self-monitoring for fever, breathlessness, oxygen saturation (SpO2), or worsening of any symptoms, in mild cases.
“Patients are advised to seek teleconsultation; and Covid-19 appropriate behaviour must be observed such as mask, strict hand hygiene and physical distancing,” the guidelines said.