The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency’s Medical Licensing Board and Board of Pharmacy issued a joint advisory opinion in response to reported stockpiling of potential COVID-19 medications, such as hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin.

The action resulted from concerns raised by ISMA and the Indiana Pharmacists Association about reports of inappropriate prescriptions of hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine and azithromycin being written for prophylactic purposes, which could lead to shortages of these drugs for patients with a legitimate need.

The advisory opinion includes specific directives for prescribers and pharmacists and recommends caution in prescribing these medications to avoid interruptions in care for patients with an appropriate medical diagnosis who are already established on them.

Professional licensees are also advised to make a good faith effort to ensure appropriate prescribing, dispensing and patient care.