JOINT STATEMENT FROM THE INDIANA BOARD OF PHARMACY AND THE MEDICAL LICENSING BOARD OF INDIANA
The Indiana Board of Pharmacy and the Medical Licensing Board of Indiana have recently received reports of prescriptions being used for hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin for prophylactic purposes in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Concerns have been raised that this activity may lead to stockpiling of medication, inappropriate use and potential drug shortages for patients with a legitimate need. To protect the public health and safety, licensees are reminded of the following:
For Prescribers: To prevent drug shortages, the Board recommends the following:
- Prescribing hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin for COVID-19 prophylactic use is discouraged and not recommended by the Board.
- Prescribing hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin for family, friends and co-workers in anticipation of a COVID-19 related illness can significantly impact drug supplies and may lead to improper use. Prescribers should exercise caution and refrain from prophylactic prescribing in light of the Public Health Emergency.
- The Indiana Board of Pharmacy is suggesting that prescribers include the diagnosis code or diagnosis with the prescription. This may prevent calls from the pharmacy and prevent dispensing delays.
- Prescribers should consider limiting the amount prescribed, unless otherwise deemed medically appropriate by the prescriber. [e.g., 14-day supply, etc.]
For Pharmacists:
- Pharmacists should use their professional judgement and take appropriate steps to verify that newly issued prescriptions for hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin are issued for a legitimate medical purpose. To prevent drug shortages, the Board recommends contacting prescribers to confirm the diagnosis for patients newly prescribed these medications during the Public Health Emergency.
- The Board recommends that licensees limit supplies of hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin prescribed for presumptive COVID-19 positive patients or prophylactic use. Multiple states have adopted a 14-day supply limit. While Indiana has not adopted a similar limit at this time, licensees should consider limited dispensing for patients newly prescribed hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine or azithromycin during the Public Health Emergency without a supporting medical diagnosis.
- The Board is not recommending that pharmacies refuse to fill, the Board is recommending that pharmacies use caution.
While both Boards are recommending caution, licensees should avoid interruptions in care for patients previously established on these medications with appropriate medical diagnosis. The Boards recognize this may be a difficult balance, however, licensees should make a good faith effort to ensure appropriate prescribing, dispensing and patient care.
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