FDA warns against use of Prodex-B drug to cure COVID-19

(Courtesy: Food and Drug Administration) The FDA has warned against the use of Prodex-B as a possible treatment against COVID-19, saying that there is no basis for claims that the drug can treat or prevent COVID-19.

(Eagle News) – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against the use of Prodex-B, a drug combination that has recently been making the rounds in social media as a possible cure for COVID-19.

In an advisory issued Monday, March 30, the FDA described as “baseless” the claims that Prodex-B can be used for treatment and prevention of COVID-19.

“The drug combination of Procaine and Dexamethasone with Vitamin B called ‘Prodex-B’ is circulating in various media platforms and claims it has promising effects against viral infections and diseases.  However upon verification, the drug product “Prodex-B” is unregistered in this Office”, the advisory read.

Unregistered drug products, according to the FDA, “have no guaranteed quality, safety and efficacy date which may lead to patient harm.”

The FDA explained that procaine is an anesthetic used to reduce pain on injections, while Dexamethasone is a cortiscosteroid which must be used with caution as it can cause “immunosuppression” or weaker immune system.

It also warned all consumers who have received Prodex-B to seek immediate medical attention, and to report to their office in case of any adverse reaction to the drug.

All health facilities and professionals were also reminded to “follow the recommended treatment guidelines endorsed by the Department of Health (DOH) and the medical societies.”

In a FAQ released on March 25, the DOH had said that supportive management is the primary treatment for COVID-19, although hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malaria drug, may be given as an “off-label” treatment to severe cases, with informed consent by the patient.