COVID-19. We’ve been dealing with it for what feels like forever. Given the amount of deaths caused by the condition, it is probably unsurprising that some consumers are resorting to treatments that have not been approved or authorized by the Food and Drug Administration.
One of the FDA’s responsibilities is to thoroughly review the scientific data on a medicine to ensure that it is both safe and effective for its intended use. In some cases, using a drug for COVID-19 prevention or treatment that has not been approved by the FDA or has not been granted emergency use authorization can be extremely risky.
There appears to be an increasing interest in the medicine ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 in humans. Certain animal formulations of ivermectin, such as pour-on, injectable, paste, and “drench,” are licensed in the United States to treat or prevent parasitic infections in animals. Ivermectin tablets are allowed for use in humans at very particular levels to treat some parasitic worms, and topical (on the skin) formulations are available for head lice and skin diseases such as rosacea for Where Can I Purchase Ivermectin.
However, the FDA has received numerous instances of individuals requiring medical attention, including hospitalization, after self-medicating using ivermectin designed for cattle.
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What You Should Know about Ivermectin.
The FDA has not authorized or approved the use of ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19 in either people or animals. Ivermectin is licensed for use in humans to treat parasitic worm infestations, head lice, and skin problems such as rosacea.
Currently current data do not indicate that ivermectin is effective against COVID-19. Clinical trials of ivermectin tablets for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 in humans are now underway.
Taking high amounts of ivermectin is harmful.
If your doctor issues you an ivermectin prescription, fill it from an authorized source, such as a drugstore, and take it exactly as directed.
Never administer drugs intended for animals to yourself or others. Animal ivermectin products differ significantly from those approved for use in humans. The use of animal ivermectin to prevent or cure COVID-19 in humans is risky.
What is Ivermectin, and how is it used?
The FDA has approved Ivermectin pills to treat intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, both of which are caused by parasitic worms. Furthermore, several topical ivermectin formulations have been licensed for the treatment of external parasites such as head lice and skin disorders such as rosacea.
Some types of animal ivermectin have been licensed to prevent heartworm disease and cure some internal and external parasites. It is vital to remember that these products differ from those for humans and are only safe when used in animals as directed.
When Is It Unsafe to Take Ivermectin?
The FDA has not authorized or cleared ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 in humans or animals. Ivermectin has not been proved to be safe or effective for these uses.
There is a lot of misinformation out there, and you might have heard that taking huge dosages of ivermectin is safe. It is not acceptable.
Even at acceptable human levels, ivermectin can interact with other drugs, such as blood thinners. Ivermectin overdose can also result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension (low blood pressure), allergic responses (itching and hives), dizziness, ataxia (balance issues), seizures, coma, and death.