Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19: Demonstrating the Importance of the Scientific Process

Abstract

Although chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have been touted in the media as “miracle drugs” in the fight against COVID-19, the research backing this claim is controversial. Some studies have shown impressive results – like one study that reported a 100% cure rate – while numerous other studies have reported inefficacy. However, the evidence presented in many of these studies has been laden with glaring flaws – from low sample sizes to a lack of control group – and many had been pre-printed without peer review. No matter how contentious the evidence for efficacy may be, studies have shown an undeniable association with serious adverse events, most notably heart arrythmias. In this article, we will discuss where the hype originated, the current state of evidence, and where the future of these in drugs is headed in the current climate of COVID-19