There is still a tremendous amount of people who are unvaccinated against COVID-19. These people still attempt to protect themselves against COVID-19 through alternative treatments; however, many of these treatments come from pop culture. The most recent treatment craze? Ivermectin. Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic drug that has become increasingly popular by influencers who testify to its ability to treat COVID-19. While Ivermectin is approved to treat some human conditions, the issue arises with many people taking Ivermectin intended for animals’ treatment.
Ivermectin for Humans vs. Animals
COVID-19 has lasted for over a year now. As a result, many may be feeling burned out from the constant news updates, tweets, and Instagram posts about COVID. The oversaturation, however, should not convince people of right and wrong ways to treat COVID-19—especially when it is from an unreputable source. As mentioned, Ivermectin is approved to treat some human conditions such as “external parasites like head lice and for skin conditions such as rosacea.” Ivermectin, in this case, is prescribed by a medical professional. Many people, however, opt to take Ivermectin products intended for animals to treat COVID-19.
Just because Ivermectin is approved to treat certain medical conditions does not mean people should be taking products intended for animals. As stressed by the FDA, Ivermectin for animals is highly more concentrated as cows, for example, can weigh a ton or more. The increased dosage is dangerous for human consumption; moreover, many inactive ingredients found in animal Ivermectin could negatively affect the human body. As such, the FDA further emphasized their declaration of Ivermectin ineffectiveness in treating COVID-19: “The FDA has not authorized or approved ivermectin for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19 in people or animals “. Even if we are burned out from COVID or don’t want to be vaccinated, resorting to animal products does not improve the situation.
Many of us wish for COVID to be over. The strong desire to have all of this over can often push people to try alternative methods to deal with COVID and its symptoms. While we all wish for the pandemic to be over, the only effective way to reduce COVID cases and symptoms is to be vaccinated. If there is ever doubt on the information surrounding COVID, visit trusted sources such as the FDA or CDC to get up-to-date and accurate information.
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