WHO calls for increased production of dexamethasone for COVID-19 patients

WHO has called for increased production of dexamethasone for COVID-19 patients, Telegraph reported.

“Although the data are still preliminary, the recent finding that the steroid dexamethasone has life-saving potential for critically ill Covid-19 patients gave us a much-needed reason to celebrate,” Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the WHO, told a virtual press briefing on Monday.

“The next challenge is to increase production and rapidly and equitably distribute dexamethasone worldwide, focusing on where it’s needed most. Demand has already surged, following the UK trial results showing dexamethasone's clear benefit.”

He added that manufacturers and suppliers are obliged to guarantee the quality of products.

“Transparency and constant monitoring will be key to ensure needs dictate supplies, rather than means,” Dr Tedros said. “It's also important to check that suppliers can guarantee quality, as there is a higher risk of substandard, or falsified products, entering the market.”

According to Ghebreyesus, dexamethasone should only be used for COVID-19 patients in serious or critical condition.

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