Medicines have been prominent in discussions about the COVID-19 pandemic. There is an urgent need to develop effective treatments to lower risks of developing the disease, reduce morbidity and save lives, but it is essential that we do not compromise the rigour of our scientific approaches. It is also important to always consider the benefit-risk ratio of different treatments, which may vary depending on whether the therapeutic is used prophylactically or in those who are severely ill and perhaps ventilated in intensive care units.
In collaboration with our clinical members, the Society has formulated positions on key issues relating to the COVID-19 pandemic that impact upon pharmacology and clinical pharmacology.
It is important to note that this is a developing situation, which we will monitor on a regular basis. As such, the current positions may evolve or new ones emerge, as more about the disease and its treatments becomes clear.
Read our current position statements in full:
- Approval of treatments for COVID-19 must be expedited safely
- Standards and guidance for clinical research relating to COVID-19 are urgently needed to ensure trial data are meaningful
- Comprehensive pharmacovigilance and pharmacoepidemiology are needed to inform medication use during the COVID-19 pandemic
For all our other work in the area, please visit the Society’s COVID-19 hub.
