The question “Can humans take ivermectin?” requires a nuanced answer. The short answer is yes, but only under specific medical conditions and with a prescription.
Ivermectin is a medication that has generated significant confusion in recent years. While it is a vital drug in modern medicine, it is also the source of dangerous misuse when taken without medical supervision or in formulations intended for animals. To understand whether you should take ivermectin, it is essential to distinguish between its FDA-approved uses and the unverified claims surrounding it.
What Is Ivermectin Approved For?
Ivermectin was discovered in the 1970s and has been so effective in treating parasitic infections that its discoverers were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015. In humans, the FDA has approved ivermectin for very specific uses.
Systemic (Oral) Treatment: Tablets are prescribed to treat parasitic worm infections. These include:
- Intestinal Strongyloidiasis: An infection caused by a roundworm that enters the body through the skin and moves to the gut.
- Onchocerciasis (River Blindness): A condition affecting the skin and eyes caused by a parasitic worm.
Topical Treatment: Ivermectin is also available as creams and lotions for external issues:
- Head Lice: Prescription lotions are used to treat lice infestations.
- Rosacea: Topical creams help reduce the inflammatory lesions associated with rosacea.
When used for these specific conditions, at the correct dosage prescribed by a doctor, ivermectin is generally considered safe and effective.
The Danger of Veterinary Ivermectin
One of the most critical warnings regarding this drug is the difference between human and animal formulations. Ivermectin is widely used in veterinary medicine to deworm horses, cows, and sheep. Humans should never take ivermectin intended for animals.
There are three main reasons why animal ivermectin is dangerous for people:
- Concentration: Animal drugs are often highly concentrated because they are designed for large animals like horses or cattle, which weigh significantly more than humans. A standard dose for a horse can be toxic or fatal to a human.
- Inactive Ingredients: Veterinary drugs contain inactive ingredients (fillers) that have not been evaluated for use in humans. These ingredients can be toxic or cause severe allergic reactions in people.
- Formulation: “Pour-on” products or pastes designed for animals are not meant to be ingested by humans and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress.
Ivermectin and COVID-19
The surge in public interest regarding ivermectin stemmed from early claims that it could treat or prevent COVID-19. However, after extensive research, major health organizations have taken a firm stance.
The FDA, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) advise against using ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 outside of clinical trials. Large-scale, randomized clinical trials have failed to show a significant clinical benefit in reducing hospitalizations or deaths from the virus. Taking the drug for this purpose can delay appropriate treatment and expose the user to unnecessary side effects.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Even when taken as prescribed for parasites, ivermectin can cause side effects. Common reactions include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Skin rash or itching
Signs of Overdose: Misuse, particularly taking high doses or animal formulations, can lead to toxicity. Symptoms of ivermectin overdose include:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Balance problems and seizures
- Coma
- In severe cases, death
Additionally, ivermectin can interact with other medications, particularly blood thinners like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding.
The Bottom Line
Humans can take ivermectin, but it is not a “do-it-yourself” medication. It is a potent prescription drug designed for specific parasitic infections. It is not an antiviral, and it is not a safe over-the-counter supplement.
If you believe you have a condition that requires ivermectin, consult a healthcare provider. They can determine if it is the right treatment for you and ensure you receive a human-grade formulation at a safe dosage. Self-medicating with veterinary products or buying drugs from unverified sources poses a serious risk to your health.
