As I posted when it was initially proposed, if it only prevents those who are asymptomatic from becoming mild and that’s all it’s not going to change mortality. It is entirely possible it “works” but still doesn’t do what we need it to do. We don’t know that. We have a bunch of anecdotes, even some from clinicians with large numbers. It is entirely possible their observations are correct but if it doesn’t change outcomes for the seriously ill there is no reason to expose people to the risk.
Randomized, controlled studies do not define reality. Failure to contemplate these matters on this level is the problem with bureaucratic medicine.
When doctors decide about risk, they weigh it against benefits or potential benefits. There’s a Supreme Court case that gives the right way to do it. You have to look at risk of taking as well as risk of not taking the treatment.
We already know the risks of taking hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin.
The risk of not taking it is death, for those with severe covid 19 infection.