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Early studies in cell cultures appear to indicate that ivermectin can prevent COVID-19 from entering cells, but this has not happened in humans, Hendrickson said.
However, the drug continues to be advertised by those who oppose COVID-19 vaccines, although there is no evidence that it is effective in preventing or treating COVID-19, he said.
For the study, Hendrickson’s team reviewed calls about ivermectin at the Oregon Poison Center in August. A total of 21 people reported side effects after taking the drug.
Most of the reports come from people over the age of 60. Eleven of the reports were from people taking ivermectin to prevent COVID-19. The other 10 took the drug to treat the symptoms of COVID-19.
Among those taking ivermectin, three had a prescription from a doctor or veterinarian and 17 had purchased veterinary versions of the drug. It is not known where the others came from.
In most people, adverse symptoms develop within two hours of taking the high dose for the first time. In six people, symptoms develop over several days to weeks after multiple doses taken every other day or twice a week. One person is also taking vitamin D to treat or prevent COVID-19.
Six of the 21 were hospitalized for the toxic effects of ivermectin, and all said they took the drug to prevent COVID-19, including three who had a prescription for the drug.
Of the six hospitalized, four were treated in the intensive care unit and none died. Among those hospitalized, gastrointestinal distress, confusion, ataxia, weakness, low blood pressure, and seizures are the most common side effects.
For those who are not hospitalized, the most common symptoms are gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, confusion, symptoms of vision and rash, the researchers found.
Hendrickson noted that there was no cure for the side effects of ivermectin. “It’s just a matter of waiting and supportive care,” he said.
Serious side effects from ivermectin have been reported since August, though not by much, Hendrickson said.
Dr Robert Glater, an emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, said: “Simply put, there is no clinical use in prescribing ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19. It is irresponsible and downright dangerous for healthcare professionals to even consider prescribing ivermectin for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. “
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