Russian government approves hydroxychloroquine for use in COVID-19 treatment

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has ordered the National Medical Cardiological Research Center to provide free hydroxychloroquine to facilities treating coronavirus patients. Mishustin’s order was published on the Russian government’s website for documents relating to official acts.

Hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial drug, has been used to treat COVID-19 internationally. Its effects against the disease have not been confirmed, and it has serious side effects.

According to Interfax, the Chinese company Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. has delivered 68,000 packages of the drug to Russia as freely provided aid. Interfax also noted that the drug is not registered in Russia.