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Ivermectin and Hydroxychloroquine for Chemo-Prophylaxis of COVID-19: A Questionnaire Survey of Perception and Prescribing Practice of Physicians vis-a-vis Outcomes.

BACKGROUND
Chemoprophylaxis (CP) along with masking and physical distancing seem an undeniable alternative. Considering the significant but uncertain role of CP for the current COVID-19 pandemic situation, we aimed to determine the various aspects of CP prescribing practices among physicians across India.


METHODS
An online survey was conducted among prescribing physicians across India where physicians were assessed for their prescribing practices on COVID-19 CP. Responses to the questionnaire were obtained via telephone, email and WhatsApp messages. Responses were duly analyzed thereafter.


RESULT
Ivermectin was the preffered choice in 44% individuals followed by hydroxychloroquine in 34% individuals. Odds of COVID contact among those using HCQ and / or IVR prophylaxis was less than 1 of which IVR was found more protective. The present study also made a survey among 309 community dwellers, where odds of contacted COVID among those with any prophylaxis was 0.46 times than those without any prophylaxis.


CONCLUSION
The HCPs found IVR to have a greater risk reduction than with HCQ; while the combination showed the greatest reduction and lack of CP use was associated with a high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.