Invermectin

Description

Ivermectin: Why Are Humans Using a Drug Meant for Animals?

Understanding the controversy behind ivermectin use in human health and self-medication. 

What Is Ivermectin?

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication originally developed for veterinary use to treat infections caused by worms, mites, and lice in animals. Over time, it was also approved for human use in specific doses to treat conditions like river blindness (onchocerciasis), scabies, and intestinal parasites, particularly in low-resource settings. Ivermectin is a glutamate-gated chloride channel (GluCls) activator, used as a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug. Ivermectin (MK-933, IVM) is a specific positive allosteric effector of P2X4 and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Ivermectin (MK-933) is a specific inhibitor of Impα/β1-mediated nuclear import and has potent antiviral activity towards both HIV-1 and dengue virus. Ivermectin induces autophagy through the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and mitophagy.

Why Did Ivermectin Gain Popularity in Human Use?

The drug gained massive global attention during the COVID-19 pandemic when some individuals and advocacy groups began promoting it as a potential treatment or preventive measure against the virus—despite a lack of conclusive scientific evidence at the time. Social media played a big role in spreading these claims, often citing early lab studies or anecdotal success stories.

Some proponents argued that ivermectin had anti-inflammatory or antiviral properties, while others leaned on personal testimonials. However, most health organizations—including the FDA, CDC, and WHO—warned against its use for COVID-19 outside clinical trials, citing insufficient evidence, risks of self-medicating, and the dangers of using animal-grade formulations, which are not safe for humans.

Risks of Using Animal Ivermectin

Animal ivermectin products are not intended for human consumption and often contain much higher doses or additional inactive ingredients that can be toxic to people. Taking the wrong form or incorrect dose can lead to side effects such as:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Skin rash or allergic reactions

• Confusion, low blood pressure, seizures, or even coma

These risks are compounded when individuals self-dose without medical guidance.

What the Science Says

While ivermectin has shown antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory potential, major trials conducted during and after the pandemic concluded that it offered no meaningful benefit in treating COVID-19. Studies on its use in other diseases are ongoing but do not currently support broad, off-label use.

Final Thoughts: Caution Over Curiosity

Ivermectin is a legitimate drug when prescribed correctly for certain human conditions. However, self-medicating with animal-grade ivermectin poses real health risks and can be dangerous. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any medication, especially those not intended for human use.