CHENNAI: The city is recovering slowly, thanks to the army of volunteers engaged in relief work. But, doctors caution that there has to be precaution and a bit of expertise when it comes to distributing medicines.
Along with the Health Department, a number of NGOs and volunteer groups have been conducting medical camps in the city for the flood affected.
Most of them, taking a cue from previous camps, are distributing medicines including Paracetamol, Cetirizine, Combiflam -anti inflammatory tablet, Eldoper - anti-diarrhoeal tablet.
When there is no harm in giving certain basic medicines during these kind of situations, doctors advise caution about Eldoper or Combiflam.
“In case of diarrhoea, it is safe, if a medical doctor examines the patient and prescribes anti-diarrhoeal medicine,” says Dr Rajendran, former Director of General Medicine, Madras Medical College. Eldoper might arrest frequency of the stools, but, could not be a permanent solution, Rajendran noted.
Toxic materials from the body should be excreted. Also knowing the type of toxin is very important, else it would remain as a contamination in the body and retain harmful bacteria and virus.
According to Dr Ragunanthan, Director of Institute of General Medicine, Madras Medical College, Combiflam, a pain reliever might mask the severity of the condition, especially during dengue season like this. It would also cause damage to the kidney and result in gastrointestinal problems.
Speaking to Express, Dr K Kolandasamy, Director of Public Health said, these volunteers should inform either the Chennai Corporation, Chief Health Officer (CHO) or Zonal Health Officer for conducting medical camps.
“We strictly advise against giving away medicines without supervision of medical doctors,” he added.