The TGA has restricted initiation of hydroxychloroquine to specialists in the wake of concern about a run on the drug for off-label use as prophylaxis against COVID-19.

The Australian Rheumatology Association (ARA) and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia have each raised concerns about the potential for supply shortages of the drug, which is in several trials worldwide as a potential therapy or preventive for coronavirus.

In an open letter to doctors this week, the PSA said pharmacists were being asked to fill prescriptions written by doctors and dentists for family members and colleagues.

Interest in the antimalarial drug, which is also indicated for rheumatoid arthritis, soared after US president Donald Trump tweeted it could be a coronavirus ‘game-changer’.