Read the September 2020 issue of CFTN
Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine have gained substantial media and healthcare attention following reports of their efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 in early in vitro and small, uncontrolled clinical trials. Subsequent larger studies, including randomized control trials, have shown mixed efficacy against COVID-19 infection, and the actual effectiveness of these medications for SARS-CoV-2 is still controversial. This report will discuss what is known about the pharmacology and toxicity of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine and the unique challenges presented by the use of these drugs for COVID-19.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% ethanol, or 70% isopropanol, when soap and water are not available. On June 19, 2020, the FDA issued an alert to warn consumers to the presence of methanol in some hand sanitizers. Since then the FDA has issued additional alerts, is constantly expanding the list of potentially contaminated hand sanitizers, and has reported findings of 1-propanol in other hand sanitizers, as well.
Alcohol use disorders are a major health concern across the globe. Testing for ethanol exposure is important for patient care to identify individuals with alcohol use disorders. There is a clinical need for a direct alcohol biomarker that is highly specific and with a longer window of detection for acute and chronic exposure.
Contact the editors with any comments or questions.
