With a unanimous vote of 17 in favor, the Parliamentary Health Committee has decided to issue a recommendation to the Minister of Health, Katya Ivkova. The decision calls for the convening of expert councils on pulmonology and infectious diseases to analyze the data presented by Academician Vanyo Mitev regarding the benefits of bromhexine and colchicine in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 and influenza. The Minister of Health was also present at the meeting.
During his presentation to the deputies, Academician Mitev emphasized that his ambition is to prove the effectiveness of large-scale prophylaxis with bromhexine, which could potentially prevent the onset of a flu epidemic. The scientist expressed hope that he would be given a hearing at the Ministry of Health to explore the possibility of implementing such an approach within school communities and among people with comorbidities. According to him, the primary mechanism of action involves blocking viral access to the cell. He further noted that the drug's preventive qualities surpass those of antiviral agents, remarking that the lack of commercial interest from pharmaceutical companies stems from the medication's low price.
Regarding practical application, Academician Mitev clarified that bromhexine can be taken over a long period because it converts into ambroxol in the body, adding that vaccination and this type of prophylaxis complement each other. The recommended regimen includes two tablets daily, and in the event of illness, three times two tablets combined with inhalations. As a possible side effect, the scientist noted a mild cough. Regarding colchicine, he emphasized that it is completely safe when taken correctly but is ineffective in low doses or if therapy is started too late. Academician Mitev criticized the World Health Organization's stance on colchicine, expressing disagreement with their position against its use for COVID-19.
Minister Katya Ivkova confirmed the department's readiness to organize a discussion within the expert councils as soon as possible. She stressed the importance of ensuring sufficient stocks of the medicinal product in the event that an official recommendation for mass use is issued. For his part, the chairman of the Health Committee, Kostadin Angelov, categorically rejected the possibility of commercial advertising, pointing out that bromhexine is an established generic product.
Other opinions were expressed during the discussions:
- Prof. Aleksandar Simidchiev ("Democratic Bulgaria") highlighted the need to conduct an adequate placebo-controlled study when introducing preventive measures.
- Tihomir Totev ("Progressive Bulgaria") expressed support, emphasizing the potential positive effect of the presented research.
- Kostadin Angelov added that the decision on how future studies will be conducted will be made jointly by the expert councils and the ethics committee.