France on Wednesday banned the use of anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19.
The French government is the first to take the step just days after the World Health Organisation (WHO) paused a large trial of the drug due to safety concerns.
Two French advisory bodies also warned that the drug - a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus - had shown to be potentially dangerous.
Recently, US President Donald Trump revealed taking hydroxychloroquine as a preventive measure against COVID-19.
No vaccine or treatment has yet been approved to treat COVID-19, that has left more than 350,000 people dead globally.
Hurricane Melissa's death toll climbs to 44, storm churns north
King Charles strips brother Andrew of titles and his mansion
Arab Parliament commends UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza
US grants India six-month sanctions waiver to run Iran's Chabahar port
Trump cuts China tariffs to 47% after 'amazing' Xi meeting
