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Lessons from a pandemic: do not force your patients into the bed of Procrustes!
  • Theodor Alexandru Voiosu,
  • Andrei Mihai Voiosu
Theodor Alexandru Voiosu
Spitalul Clinic Colentina

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Andrei Mihai Voiosu
Spitalul Clinic Colentina
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Abstract

The frantic search for a cure or prophylactic treatment of COVID-19 has unfortunately led to a dropping of the guard of many medical specialists resulting in widespread adoption of unproven treatment modalities. The recent article regarding the inconsistent physician attitudes towards hydroxychloroquine paints a depressing picture of the actual practices during the so-called era of evidence-based medicine. On this backdrop, we comment on how Romania (where this survey took place) has imposed some of the most severe lockdown measures in Europe, including the forced hospitalization of all confirmed with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, a therapeutic guideline was written into law, endorsing concomitant use of several drugs with unproven antiviral efficiency. This unprecedented situation has resulted in the sometimes indiscriminate prescription of off-label drugs, with a non-negligible risk of adverse reactions, especially in fragile patients with coexisting conditions. In light of the experience accrued in a COVID-19 dedicated unit, the authors discuss the importance of avoiding polypharmacy and administering all antiviral drugs within the confines of rigorously conducted clinical trials.
28 Sep 2020Submitted to Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice
29 Sep 2020Assigned to Editor
29 Sep 2020Submission Checks Completed
07 Oct 2020Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
07 Oct 2020Editorial Decision: Accept
04 Nov 2020Published in Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice. 10.1111/jep.13506