Pharmacists Weigh in on COVID Treatment

When a malaria drug was touted as a potential COVID-19 treatment, Live 5 News turned to MUSC pharmacy alumni to get answers for the public. 

Erin Pauley ‘’98, director of pharmacy for Delta Pharmacy & Medical Supply, and Dottie Farfone ‘’99, owner of Dottie’s Pharmacy and Compounding, answered questions about the anti-malarial drugs hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine and shared what their pharmacies are doing to continue patient care during the pandemic. 

"As a pharmacist, we're really the first line a lot of time for people's questions," Pauley said in the report. “We have no intentions of ever closing our doors.”

The drugs, which Farfone explained can be used for auto-immune disorders such as lupus, could get into short supply if doctors prescribe them in all but the most extreme cases. Compounding pharmacies like Dottie’s could create the drug in a shortage. 

Both Delta and Dottie’s have taken precautions to protect patients and staff while insuring they will be able to stay open and available for patient care. Dottie’s is offering curbside service and Delta has shifted to drive-through only.

Live 5 News turned to MUSC pharmacy alumni