The Government of India has ordered for 11.45 crore hydroxychloroquine tablets, which have been used as prophylaxis drug in the wake of Coronavirus.

"This drug is being directly procured by HLL Lifecare, on behalf of the Union Health Ministry," says an ANI report.

The order has been placed with IPCA laboratories and Zydus Cadila, both of which are Indian firms. The government has already received 6.64 crore units. The remaining will arrive by May 16.

These tablets are not for the general public. "Patients who have been clinically advised; Health workers at risk due to their direct contact with Covid-19 patients; Household contacts of confirmed Covid-19 cases -- these alone can take them on doctor's prescription," a recent advisory said.

"It's harmful to consume HCQ without a prescription, as it may have adverse effects on your health," the government added.