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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 16) — A second hospital has received the go-signal to use antiparasitic drug ivermectin on its COVID-19 patients, Food and Drug Administration Director General Eric Domingo confirmed on Friday despite the medicine's unproven efficacy against the disease.
"Yes, a second hospital applied for CSP (compassionate special permit) for Ivermectin and approved," he told CNN Philippines.
The unnamed health facility is the second hospital to receive such permit from the FDA this month. Doctors who will prescribe the drug will be held liable for possible side effects.
Domingo on Thursday admitted there has been "pressure" to allow ivermectin to be repurposed to cure COVID-19 patients. But he assured that the approvals have been based on merit and completion of requirements.