NATIONWIDE -- Despite potentially fatal side effects, President Donald Trump on Monday said he is taking hydroxychloroquine in order to prevent the novel coronavirus.

What You Need To Know


  • President Trump said he is taking hxdoxychloroquine to prevent coronavirus

  • President's physician issued a statement concerning the decision 

  • FDA warns of potentially fatal side effects, including severe low blood pressure 

  • Drug typically used to combat malaria 

His personal physician later issued a statement explaining the move, writing, in part, “After numerous discussions he and I had regarding the evidence for and against the use of hydroxychloroquine, we concluded the potential benefit for treatment far outweighed the relative risks.”

Medical experts have warned that the drug should only be administered for COVID-19 in a hospital or for research purposes.

Hydroxychloroquine, which is typically given to patients for malaria, has not proven effective in preventing or combating COVID-19.

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What are the risks? According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the drug can cause heart rhythm problems, severe low blood pressure or nerve damage.

While President Trump has previously touted the potential effectiveness of hydroxycholorquine, it is best to consult with a physician before undergoing any drug regimen.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.