AVOID IVERMECTIN FOR COVID-19!
Caution: False Claims about COVID-19 Treatments
Examples of animal ivermectin products - not for human use.
It’s tempting but dangerous to believe social media claims and try unproven therapies for COVID-19. They give us a false sense of protection and put us at risk for drug toxicity. Multiple cases have been reported recently of patients needing medical support and hospitalization after taking the animal parasite medicine ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19.
How is Ivermectin Used?
Ivermectin has limited uses in humans and is considered safe only at the recommended dosage level. It is used in tablet form to treat infections such as intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, two conditions caused by parasitic worms. It is used as a topical product to treat lice and rosacea. Some forms of animal ivermectin are approved to prevent heartworm disease and treat certain internal and external parasites. These products are not the same as the ones in humans and are safe only when used in animals as prescribed.
Is Ivermectin FDA-Approved for COVID-19?
No. Data do not show ivermectin is safe or effective against COVID-19. Ivermectin for COVID-19 should only be used in a research setting, under medical supervision as part of a clinical trial. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not authorized or approved ivermectin’s use for prevention or treatment of COVID-19 in humans or animals.
What Do Studies Show?
Early tests using study cells in a laboratory (in vitro) have shown ivermectin reduces the number of cell-associated viral RNA substantially in 24 hours, however, clinical trials conducted on people have been far less convincing. There is a low level of certainty that ivermectin does anything to help treat COVID-19. The quality of some of the clinical trials has also been called into question which makes the so-called evidence, very suspect. Clinical trials are still ongoing. More well-designed randomized controlled studies using adequate patient numbers are needed before any decision can be made as to ivermectin’s effectiveness and safety for COVID-19 treatment.
Is it Safe for Me to Take Ivermectin Animal Products?
No. FDA-approved ivermectin products formulated for use in large animals are made in high doses. These products can be highly toxic in humans and should not be used. Inactive ingredients found in these animal products have not been evaluated for use in people or they are in much higher doses than are used in humans. We may not always know how inactive ingredients will affect how ivermectin is absorbed in the human body.
What Are Symptoms of Ivermectin Overdose?
An overdose of ivermectin may result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension (low blood pressure), allergic reactions (itching and hives), dizziness, ataxia (problems with balance), seizures, coma and even death. Contact Poison Control right away if you suspect a poisoning. Help is available online with webPoisonControl or by phone at 1-800-222-1222. Both options are free, expert, and confidential. If the individual collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing or can't be awakened: CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY
Can Ivermectin Interact with Other Medicines I Take?
Yes. Even human doses of ivermectin can interact with other medications, like blood-thinners. For example, ivermectin can increase the effects of warfarin and cause you to bleed more easily.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself from COVID-19?
For best protection get a COVID-19 vaccine and follow CDC guidelines. Ask your health care provider and pharmacist about the best option for you. For more information, watch our “Best of Health Tip” entitled, “Avoid Ivermectin for COVID-19!” on our website, drlinda.tv and YouTube Channel, “Dr. Linda TV – Best of Health!
References:
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/why-you-should-not-use-ivermectin-treat-or-prevent-covid-19
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/ivermectin-treat-covid-19-coronavirus-3535912/
