Pharmacists and manufacturers say the surge in sales has led to a shortage for patients who actually need it. “Health Canada recently warned Canadians of the serious side effects associated with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, including heart rhythm problems, liver or kidney problems, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and nervous system problems,” a spokesperson for Health Canada said by email. Despite that, global demand for hydroxychloroquine has exploded around the world, creating shortages in many countries, including Canada. “This is a product that has historically appeared in the drug-shortage database in Canada,” Singh explained. On Tuesday, a World Health Organization spokesperson said multiple treatments were showing promise in the fight against the COVID-19 virus, but did not name any of them.

Source: National Post May 12, 2020 23:48 UTC