COVID-19. We’ve been living with it for what sometimes looks like forever. Given the number of deaths that have occurred from the disease, it’s perhaps not surprising that some consumers are watching unconventional treatments, not approved or authorized by any authority. Though this is often understandable, please beware. The FDA’s job is to carefully evaluate the scientific data on a drug to make certain that it's both safe and effective for a specific use, then to make a decision whether or to not approve it. Using any treatment for COVID-19 that’s not approved or authorized by the FDA, unless a part of a clinical test, can cause serious harm. There seems to be a growing interest in a drug called ivermectin to treat humans with COVID-19. Ivermectin is usually utilized in the U.S. to treat or prevent parasites in animals and other countries. The FDA has received multiple reports of patients who have required medical support and been hospitalized after self-medicating with ivermectin intended for horses.
What Should You Know More About Ivermectin
- FDA has not approved ivermectin to be used in treating or preventing COVID-19 in humans. Ivermectin tablets are approved at very specific doses for a few parasitic worms, and there are topical (on the skin) formulations for head lice and skin conditions like rosacea. Ivermectin isn't an anti-viral (a drug for treating viruses).
- Taking large doses of this drug is dangerous and may cause serious harm.
- If you've got a prescription for ivermectin for an FDA-approved use, catch on from a legitimate source and take it exactly as prescribed.
- Never use medications intended for animals on yourself. Ivermectin preparations for animals are very different from those approved for humans.