Why! because VIRUS actually are the smallest kind of parasites!!
Hydroxychloroquine
Human use: Hydroxychloroquine is authorized in the EU for medical purposes like malaria prevention, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus—prescription-only via a doctor, not available over the counter .
Availability in pharmacies: A survey covering several European countries (including Spain) found that immediate availability varies widely—Finland (96%), the Netherlands, Portugal, UK (~70–75%), France, Germany, Switzerland (~45–52%), Spain, Slovakia, Belgium, Italy (~34–41%) . In Spain specifically, about 69% of patients could obtain it within three days, while roughly 11% experienced delays longer than two weeks .
Off-label use: In some cases (e.g., COVID-19), use is restricted. For example, Italy’s regulator (AIFA) does not recommend off-label prescriptions for COVID-19 and such use isn’t reimbursed by the health system . And in March 2020 Spain temporarily blocked HCQ sales to preserve supply for chronic patients .
Summary: Yes, hydroxychloroquine is available with a prescription in Europe for approved medical conditions, but access and stocking levels vary by country. Its use for unapproved indications (like COVID-19) is restricted.
Hydroxychloroquine
Human use: Hydroxychloroquine is authorized in the EU for medical purposes like malaria prevention, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus—prescription-only via a doctor, not available over the counter .
Availability in pharmacies: A survey covering several European countries (including Spain) found that immediate availability varies widely—Finland (96%), the Netherlands, Portugal, UK (~70–75%), France, Germany, Switzerland (~45–52%), Spain, Slovakia, Belgium, Italy (~34–41%) . In Spain specifically, about 69% of patients could obtain it within three days, while roughly 11% experienced delays longer than two weeks .
Off-label use: In some cases (e.g., COVID-19), use is restricted. For example, Italy’s regulator (AIFA) does not recommend off-label prescriptions for COVID-19 and such use isn’t reimbursed by the health system . And in March 2020 Spain temporarily blocked HCQ sales to preserve supply for chronic patients .
Summary: Yes, hydroxychloroquine is available with a prescription in Europe for approved medical conditions, but access and stocking levels vary by country. Its use for unapproved indications (like COVID-19) is restricted.
