The Federal Government has warned Nigerians against self-medication for COVID-19, stressing it could lead to body organs damage.
The Director of Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), Dr Adebimpe Adebiyi, gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday in Abuja.
Adebiyi emphasised that, while there may be some “rationale” behind natural theories for COVID-19, they could pose serious dangers to the body and cause health complications.
Dr. Adebiyi warned that one of the most dangerous preventive methods of COVID-19 circulating on social media was the abuse of hydroxychloroquine, which most people believe to be a cure for Coronavirus.
She stressed that taking certain drugs without medical prescription and supervision can result in body toxicity and consequently lead to sedation, coma, seizures, heart complications and other conditions.
“Do not take any drugs outside of a physician’s recommendation, she warned.
At this moment, the best we can do to stay alive is to take medications that have been hypothesised as helpful.
She added that those with underlying conditions can safely take drugs when prescribed, but must have a better understanding of the risks and benefits.#
The health expert noted that while the fear of catching COVID-19 was making Nigerians doubly cautious about their health and the need to safeguard the same by all means, some had even been relying on traditional home remedies and other detox drinks to stay healthy.
The director added that many had also taken to self-medicating on Vitamin C, Vitamin D and other multivitamins, saying “there has been an exponential rise in Nigerians stocking up on immunity-boosting medicines.
“Medicines only work best when they are used according to the prescribed dosage by a medical practitioner. If not, it can wreak havoc on the body’s immune system,” she added.
She noted that prevention remained the best cure, adding that cutting down on your risk of exposure, along with proper disinfection habits are really the best way to fight and negate the risks of COVID-19.
She prescribed good sleep, nutrient-rich diet and exercise as the three best natural infection fighters that work better than any supplement.
