Ivermectin in Humans: Uses, Safety, Dosage, and Common Misconceptions

What Is Ivermectin?

Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug that has been used for decades in both veterinary medicine and human healthcare. It belongs to the avermectin class of compounds and is derived from fermentation products of the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis.

From a pharmacological perspective, ivermectin works by targeting parasite-specific neural and muscular pathways, making it highly effective against a wide range of internal and external parasites while remaining relatively safe when used correctly and within approved indications.

In veterinary medicine, ivermectin is widely recognized as a cornerstone drug for the control of endoparasites and ectoparasites in animals such as dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, horses, and other livestock. Its spectrum includes nematodes, mites, lice, and certain arthropods. Because of this extensive veterinary use, ivermectin has become one of the most familiar antiparasitic molecules worldwide.

In human medicine, ivermectin is also an established drug, but its approved uses are far more limited and tightly regulated compared to veterinary applications. Human formulations are designed with specific dosages, excipients, and safety margins that differ significantly from animal products.

Importantly, ivermectin is not a general-purpose medication. It does not act against bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and its effectiveness is limited strictly to certain parasitic organisms. Misunderstanding this basic fact has been a major source of misuse and misinformation in recent years.

From a public health standpoint, ivermectin occupies a unique position: it is a molecule that sits at the intersection of animal health, human medicine, and zoonotic disease control. This dual-use nature makes it both extremely valuable and potentially dangerous when used outside proper medical guidance.

History of Ivermectin and Its Veterinary Origins

The history of ivermectin begins in the 1970s, rooted firmly in veterinary science. The compound was discovered during a collaborative research effort aimed at finding new antiparasitic agents for use in animals. Soil samples collected in Japan led to the isolation of Streptomyces avermitilis, from which avermectins were derived. Ivermectin emerged as a refined and safer derivative suitable for clinical use.

Initially, ivermectin was developed exclusively for veterinary applications. Its early success in controlling parasitic infections in livestock revolutionized parasite management in agriculture. Diseases that once caused major economic losses and animal welfare issues became far more manageable with the introduction of ivermectin-based treatments.

As veterinary use expanded, researchers recognized that the same mechanisms that made ivermectin effective in animals could also be beneficial in humans—particularly in regions where parasitic diseases posed significant public health challenges. This led to the careful adaptation of ivermectin for human medicine, with extensive studies to establish safe dosing, pharmacokinetics, and risk profiles specific to humans.

One of the most notable milestones in ivermectin’s history was its role in the global fight against onchocerciasis (river blindness) and strongyloidiasis. Mass drug administration programs, under strict medical supervision, demonstrated that ivermectin could dramatically reduce disease burden in affected populations. These programs underscored the importance of controlled, evidence-based use, rather than unsupervised or off-label consumption.

Despite its success in human medicine, ivermectin has never lost its identity as a veterinary-origin drug. The vast majority of ivermectin produced globally is still intended for animal use. This fact is crucial, because it explains why veterinary formulations are widely available and why misuse by humans—often driven by misinformation—has become a significant safety concern.

Understanding ivermectin’s veterinary origins is essential for appreciating both its strengths and its limitations. The drug was designed to target parasites in biological systems that differ markedly between animals and humans. Ignoring this context can lead to dosing errors, toxic effects, and serious health consequences.

Approved Medical Uses of Ivermectin in Humans

Ivermectin has a well-defined but limited role in human medicine, with approvals based strictly on evidence from controlled clinical studies. Its use in humans is primarily focused on specific parasitic infections, particularly those that are prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.

One of the most established indications for ivermectin in humans is onchocerciasis (river blindness), a disease caused by Onchocerca volvulus. In this context, ivermectin does not kill adult worms but effectively reduces microfilariae levels, thereby decreasing disease progression and transmission. This application has made ivermectin a cornerstone of global public health programs under strict medical supervision.

Another approved use is strongyloidiasis, an intestinal parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides stercoralis. In these cases, ivermectin is considered one of the most effective treatments due to its high efficacy and relatively favorable safety profile when administered at appropriate doses.

Ivermectin is also used in the treatment of scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation) and pediculosis (lice infestation), particularly in situations where topical therapies are ineffective, impractical, or have failed. In such cases, oral ivermectin may be prescribed as part of a controlled treatment protocol, sometimes in combination with topical agents.

It is important to emphasize that these approved uses are based on:

• Carefully calculated weight-based dosing

• Short, predefined treatment durations

• Medical evaluation of contraindications and risk factors

Outside these indications, ivermectin is not considered a general antiparasitic solution for humans. Its use does not extend to viral infections, bacterial diseases, or nonspecific symptoms. Any application beyond approved indications is considered off-label and requires strong medical justification, something that is often absent in cases of self-medication.

This distinction is critical because the legitimate success of ivermectin in certain human parasitic diseases has unfortunately contributed to the false perception that it is broadly beneficial for unrelated conditions.

How Ivermectin Works in the Human Body

Ivermectin’s mechanism of action is highly specific and explains both its effectiveness against parasites and its limitations in humans. The drug primarily targets glutamate-gated chloride channels found in the nerve and muscle cells of many parasites.

When ivermectin binds to these channels, it increases the influx of chloride ions, leading to:

• Hyperpolarization of nerve cells

• Paralysis of the parasite

• Eventual death or expulsion of the organism from the host

Crucially, these glutamate-gated chloride channels are absent in humans. This biological difference is one of the key reasons ivermectin can be used safely in people at therapeutic doses. In humans, the drug has minimal interaction with the central nervous system due to the protective role of the blood–brain barrier, which limits ivermectin’s penetration into the brain.

However, this safety margin is dose-dependent. At excessively high doses, or in individuals with compromised blood–brain barrier function, ivermectin may begin to interact with human gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. This interaction can lead to neurological side effects, including dizziness, confusion, ataxia, and, in severe cases, seizures.

From a pharmacokinetic standpoint, ivermectin is:

• Well absorbed orally

• Highly lipophilic, meaning it distributes into fatty tissues

• Metabolized mainly in the liver

• Eliminated primarily through feces

These characteristics further underline why human dosing cannot be extrapolated from veterinary use. Animals differ significantly in metabolism, body composition, and tolerance thresholds. Veterinary formulations are designed with these differences in mind, not for human physiology.

Understanding how ivermectin works in the human body reinforces a central message of this article: ivermectin is a precise tool, not a broad-spectrum remedy. Its benefits arise only when used for the right indication, at the right dose, and under appropriate medical oversight.

Differences Between Human and Veterinary Ivermectin Formulations

Although ivermectin is the same molecule at a chemical level, human and veterinary ivermectin products are fundamentally different in their formulation, dosing strategy, and safety design. This distinction is often underestimated and is a major cause of serious misuse.

Human ivermectin formulations are produced under strict pharmaceutical standards specifically tailored to human physiology. These products contain:

• Precisely calibrated tablet strengths

• Excipients tested for human safety

• Dosing instructions based on body weight and clinical indication

In contrast, veterinary ivermectin formulations are designed for entirely different biological systems. Animals such as cattle, horses, sheep, dogs, and cats differ greatly from humans in metabolism, body fat distribution, liver enzyme activity, and drug tolerance. Veterinary products are therefore formulated to meet these animal-specific needs.

Key differences include:

• Concentration: Veterinary ivermectin is often far more concentrated to allow dosing of large animals.

• Dosage volume: Injectable or pour-on veterinary products deliver doses that would be dangerous if applied to humans.

• Inactive ingredients: Solvents, stabilizers, and carriers used in animal medicines may be harmless to livestock but toxic or poorly tolerated in humans.

Another critical factor is route of administration. Many veterinary ivermectin products are intended for subcutaneous injection, topical application, or oral paste formulations. These routes and delivery systems are not interchangeable with human oral tablets and can significantly alter absorption and toxicity profiles if misused.

From a safety standpoint, veterinary products are not evaluated, approved, or monitored for human use. They bypass the regulatory frameworks that protect human patients, including pharmacovigilance systems designed to detect adverse reactions in people.

This means that even when the active ingredient is identical, veterinary ivermectin cannot be considered a substitute for human medicine under any circumstances.

Why Veterinary Ivermectin Should Never Be Used by Humans

The use of veterinary ivermectin by humans represents one of the most dangerous forms of medication misuse. This practice carries risks that extend far beyond simple dosing errors.

The primary danger lies in overdose. Veterinary ivermectin products are frequently formulated to treat animals weighing tens or hundreds of kilograms. A small measurement error, or even a “careful” guess, can result in exposure to doses that overwhelm the human nervous system.

Neurological toxicity is the most serious consequence of veterinary ivermectin misuse. Reported effects include:

• Severe dizziness and disorientation

• Loss of coordination (ataxia)

• Visual disturbances

• Confusion and altered mental status

• Seizures and coma in extreme cases

In addition to the active ingredient, veterinary formulations may contain excipients not approved for human use. These substances can independently cause adverse reactions, liver strain, or allergic responses. Humans have no established safety thresholds for these compounds.

Another overlooked risk is the false sense of security created by anecdotal reports. Individuals may believe that because ivermectin is “used safely in animals,” it must be inherently safe for humans. This assumption ignores the extensive scientific and regulatory processes required to adapt any veterinary drug for human use.

From a public health perspective, the misuse of veterinary ivermectin undermines trust in both veterinary and medical professions. Veterinarians play a critical role in animal health and zoonotic disease prevention, but they are not responsible for guiding human self-medication. Crossing this boundary places individuals at unnecessary and avoidable risk.

The safest and only responsible position is clear: veterinary ivermectin should never be used by humans, regardless of dosage assumptions, anecdotal claims, or external pressures.

Ivermectin Dosage in Humans: General Medical Principles

Ivermectin dosing in humans follows strict medical principles and is never arbitrary. Unlike many over-the-counter medications, ivermectin dosing is weight-based, indication-specific, and limited to short treatment courses. This approach exists to maximize efficacy while minimizing neurological and systemic risks.

In approved human indications, ivermectin is generally administered as a single dose or short-course regimen, calculated in micrograms per kilogram of body weight. The exact dosage depends on:

• The specific parasitic infection being treated

• The patient’s body weight

• Age and overall health status

• Presence of underlying conditions affecting the liver or nervous system

A defining characteristic of human ivermectin use is that it is not intended for continuous or preventive daily use. Repeated or prolonged exposure increases the risk of accumulation, particularly due to ivermectin’s lipophilic nature and distribution into fatty tissues.

Another critical principle is medical supervision. Physicians evaluate:

• Potential drug interactions

• Contraindications such as neurological disorders

• The integrity of the blood–brain barrier

This evaluation cannot be replicated through self-assessment or online dosing calculators. Even small deviations from recommended dosing can shift ivermectin from a therapeutic agent to a neurotoxic compound.

It is also important to note that ivermectin dosing in humans is not interchangeable across indications. A dose used for scabies is not automatically appropriate for intestinal parasites, and vice versa. Each indication has its own evidence-based dosing framework.

This precision highlights why extrapolating doses from veterinary medicine—or from anecdotal reports—is medically unsound and potentially dangerous.

Side Effects and Safety Profile of Ivermectin

When used correctly and within approved indications, ivermectin is generally considered to have a favorable safety profile in humans. However, like all pharmacologically active substances, it is not free from side effects.

Commonly reported side effects include:

• Mild dizziness or lightheadedness

• Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort

• Fatigue or transient weakness

• Headache

These effects are usually self-limiting and resolve without intervention. In many cases, they are related not only to the drug itself but also to the body’s response to dying parasites.

More serious adverse effects are uncommon but clinically significant. These are typically associated with:

• Excessive dosing

• Repeated use without medical oversight

• Use in individuals with underlying neurological vulnerability

Neurological symptoms may include confusion, impaired coordination, tremors, or altered consciousness. In rare but severe cases, high systemic exposure can lead to seizures or coma.

Another aspect of ivermectin safety involves drug interactions. Medications that affect liver enzymes, central nervous system depressants, or substances that alter blood–brain barrier permeability can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Special caution is required in:

• Elderly individuals

• Patients with liver disease

• Individuals with neurological disorders

These populations may have altered drug metabolism or increased sensitivity, narrowing the margin of safety.

Understanding ivermectin’s safety profile reinforces a key message: ivermectin is safe only within its defined medical boundaries. Crossing those boundaries—through misuse, overuse, or substitution with veterinary products—fundamentally changes the risk–benefit balance.

Ivermectin and COVID-19: Scientific Evidence and Misinformation

The COVID-19 pandemic brought ivermectin into the global spotlight, but largely outside its established medical context. Early laboratory studies suggested that ivermectin might inhibit viral replication under experimental conditions. However, these findings were based on in vitro concentrations far exceeding those safely achievable in humans.

As the pandemic progressed, multiple clinical studies were conducted to evaluate ivermectin’s effectiveness in preventing or treating COVID-19. When high-quality, well-designed randomized controlled trials were analyzed, the results were consistent: ivermectin did not demonstrate reliable clinical benefit for COVID-19 treatment or prevention.

Major health authorities worldwide reviewed the available evidence and reached similar conclusions. Regulatory agencies emphasized that:

• Laboratory findings do not equate to clinical effectiveness

• Reported benefits in some early studies were often linked to methodological flaws

• Risks associated with misuse outweighed any unproven potential benefit

Despite this, ivermectin became the subject of widespread misinformation. Social media amplification, anecdotal testimonials, and non-peer-reviewed claims contributed to a false narrative portraying ivermectin as a suppressed or “hidden” cure.

This misinformation had tangible consequences. Reports of poisoning and hospital admissions increased, particularly due to self-medication with veterinary ivermectin products. In these cases, harm resulted not from ivermectin’s approved medical use, but from its misuse outside evidence-based boundaries.

From a scientific standpoint, the ivermectin–COVID-19 narrative serves as a cautionary example of how misinterpretation of preliminary data can lead to public health risks. It underscores the importance of distinguishing between experimental hypotheses and validated medical practice.

Drug Interactions and Special Risk Groups

Ivermectin does not act in isolation within the human body. Its safety and effectiveness are influenced by concurrent medications, physiological conditions, and individual risk factors. Understanding these interactions is essential to prevent avoidable adverse outcomes.

One of the primary considerations involves medications that affect the central nervous system. Drugs such as sedatives, anticonvulsants, or alcohol can potentiate neurological side effects when combined with ivermectin. This interaction increases the risk of dizziness, impaired coordination, and altered mental status.

Another important category includes medications that influence liver metabolism. Ivermectin is primarily metabolized by hepatic enzymes, and substances that inhibit or induce these pathways can alter drug levels in the body. Elevated systemic concentrations may increase toxicity, while reduced levels may compromise therapeutic effectiveness.

Certain populations require particular caution:

• Individuals with liver disease may have impaired drug clearance

• Patients with neurological conditions may be more susceptible to central nervous system effects

• Elderly individuals may experience altered pharmacokinetics and increased sensitivity

Additionally, people with compromised blood–brain barrier integrity—due to genetic factors, inflammation, or underlying disease—may face a higher risk of neurological adverse effects, even at standard doses.

These considerations highlight why ivermectin should never be taken casually or without professional evaluation. The absence of immediate side effects does not guarantee safety, especially when interacting variables are present.

Regulatory Status of Ivermectin Worldwide (FDA, WHO, EMA)

Ivermectin’s use in humans is governed by strict regulatory frameworks across the world. Major health authorities have consistently emphasized that ivermectin is a prescription-only medication, approved solely for specific parasitic infections and not for broad or preventive use.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ivermectin for limited human indications such as parasitic infestations. At the same time, the FDA has repeatedly warned against the use of veterinary ivermectin products in humans and against unapproved uses that fall outside established medical evidence.

Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes ivermectin as an essential medicine for certain neglected tropical diseases, particularly within structured public health programs. These programs rely on controlled dosing, population screening, and ongoing safety monitoring. The WHO does not endorse ivermectin for unrelated conditions or for unsupervised self-medication.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) follows a comparable stance. It supports ivermectin’s use only within its approved indications and clearly states that there is insufficient evidence to recommend ivermectin for conditions such as viral infections. Regulatory guidance consistently highlights the risks associated with misuse and off-label consumption without medical oversight.

Across these regulatory bodies, one message is uniform: ivermectin is valuable when used correctly, but potentially harmful when misused. Its legal and clinical status reflects a careful balance between benefit and risk, grounded in scientific evaluation rather than public opinion or anecdotal claims.

The Role of Veterinarians in Preventing Human Misuse of Ivermectin

Veterinarians play a critical but often overlooked role in the broader context of ivermectin misuse. As professionals responsible for prescribing and administering ivermectin in animals, veterinarians are frequently the first point of contact when veterinary products are improperly repurposed for human use.

It is essential to recognize that veterinarians are trained to protect animal health and public health, including the prevention of zoonotic disease transmission. However, they are not authorized to advise or treat human medical conditions. When veterinary medicines are diverted for human use, this boundary is crossed, creating safety risks for individuals and ethical challenges for professionals.

Clear communication is one of the most effective preventive tools. By explaining that veterinary ivermectin formulations are not interchangeable with human medicines, veterinarians help dispel the misconception that “the same drug” means “the same safety.” Education at this level can significantly reduce harm caused by misinformation.

From a broader perspective, preventing misuse protects:

• Human health, by avoiding toxic exposures

• Animal health, by preserving appropriate access to veterinary medications

• Professional integrity, by maintaining clear medical boundaries

This shared responsibility highlights why ivermectin must be understood not only as a drug, but as part of a larger system involving regulation, education, and ethical practice.

Key Takeaways on Safe and Responsible Use of Ivermectin

Ivermectin is neither a miracle drug nor an inherently dangerous substance. It is a specific, evidence-based antiparasitic medication with well-defined benefits and clear limitations.

The most important points to understand are:

• Ivermectin is approved for certain human parasitic diseases under medical supervision

• Veterinary ivermectin formulations are unsafe and inappropriate for human use

• Misuse, overuse, and self-medication significantly increase the risk of adverse effects

• Scientific evidence does not support ivermectin for unrelated conditions such as viral infections

At its core, safe ivermectin use depends on respecting medical boundaries. When those boundaries are observed, ivermectin remains a valuable tool in both veterinary and human medicine. When they are ignored, preventable harm occurs.

This distinction aligns directly with the mission of vetsaglik: promoting accurate information at the intersection of animal health, human health, and public responsibility.

FAQ - Ivermectin

Is ivermectin approved for human use?

Yes, ivermectin is approved for human use, but only for specific parasitic infections and under medical supervision. Regulatory authorities have authorized it for conditions such as strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, scabies, and lice infestations. Approval does not mean unrestricted use. It means the drug has been proven safe and effective only within defined medical indications and dosing protocols. Any use outside these parameters is considered off-label and requires strong clinical justification.

Can humans take veterinary ivermectin safely?

No. Veterinary ivermectin should never be used by humans. Although the active ingredient may be chemically identical, veterinary products differ significantly in concentration, formulation, and inactive ingredients. These products are not tested for human safety and carry a high risk of overdose and neurotoxicity. Many reported ivermectin poisonings are directly linked to veterinary formulations.

Why is veterinary ivermectin more dangerous for humans?

Veterinary ivermectin is often formulated for animals weighing dozens or even hundreds of kilograms. Small dosing errors can result in massive overdoses for humans. Additionally, solvents and stabilizers used in animal medicines may be toxic or poorly tolerated in people. These factors together make veterinary ivermectin fundamentally unsafe for human use.

What happens if a human overdoses on ivermectin?

Ivermectin overdose primarily affects the nervous system. Symptoms may include dizziness, confusion, impaired coordination, visual disturbances, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. Overdose risk increases dramatically with veterinary products or repeated dosing. Immediate medical attention is required if overdose is suspected.

Is ivermectin an antibiotic or antiviral drug?

No. Ivermectin is neither an antibiotic nor an antiviral. It has no direct effect on bacteria or viruses. Its mechanism of action is specific to certain parasites. Confusing ivermectin with broad-spectrum anti-infective drugs is one of the most common reasons for misuse.

Why was ivermectin discussed so much during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Early laboratory studies showed that ivermectin could inhibit viral replication at extremely high concentrations. However, these levels were far above what is safe for humans. Later, well-designed clinical trials failed to show consistent benefit in COVID-19 patients. Despite this, misinformation spread rapidly, leading to widespread misuse.

Did health authorities ban ivermectin for COVID-19?

Health authorities did not ban ivermectin outright. Instead, they stated that there is insufficient evidence to support its use for COVID-19 outside clinical trials. They also issued strong warnings against self-medication and veterinary ivermectin use due to safety concerns.

Can ivermectin be used preventively in humans?

No. Ivermectin is not approved for long-term or preventive use in humans. It is designed for short-course treatment of specific parasitic infections. Preventive or repeated use increases the risk of drug accumulation and adverse neurological effects.

How is ivermectin dosage determined for humans?

Human ivermectin dosing is typically calculated based on body weight and medical indication. It is measured in micrograms per kilogram and administered as a single dose or short course. Dosing must be individualized and supervised by a physician to ensure safety.

Is ivermectin safe for children?

Ivermectin can be used in children for certain approved indications, but only under medical supervision and with carefully adjusted dosing. Safety depends on age, weight, and overall health status. It should never be given to children without a physician’s guidance.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use ivermectin?

Ivermectin use during pregnancy or breastfeeding requires careful risk–benefit evaluation. In some cases, alternative treatments may be preferred. Medical supervision is essential, as safety data in these populations are limited.

Does ivermectin cross the blood–brain barrier?

At therapeutic doses, ivermectin has limited penetration into the brain due to the protective blood–brain barrier. However, high doses or certain medical conditions can compromise this protection, leading to neurological side effects.

What drugs interact with ivermectin?

Ivermectin may interact with medications that affect the central nervous system or liver metabolism. Sedatives, alcohol, and drugs influencing hepatic enzymes can increase the risk of adverse effects. This is why a medication review is necessary before use.

Why do some people report feeling better after taking ivermectin incorrectly?

Perceived improvement may result from placebo effects, symptom fluctuation, or resolution of unrelated conditions. Anecdotal experiences are not reliable indicators of drug efficacy and should never replace scientific evidence.

Can ivermectin treat all parasites in humans?

No. Ivermectin is effective against certain parasites, but not all. Some parasitic infections require different medications or combination therapies. Proper diagnosis is essential before treatment.

Is ivermectin toxic to the liver?

At approved doses, ivermectin is generally well tolerated by the liver. However, excessive or repeated dosing can increase liver strain, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver disease.

Why do veterinarians emphasize that ivermectin is not for humans?

Veterinarians understand the formulation differences, dosing risks, and legal boundaries between animal and human medicine. Their warnings aim to prevent serious harm caused by misuse of veterinary products.

Can ivermectin be bought without a prescription?

In many countries, human ivermectin is prescription-only. Veterinary ivermectin may be legally sold for animal use, but this does not make it safe or legal for human consumption.

Does ivermectin build resistance in parasites?

Yes, improper or excessive use can contribute to parasite resistance, particularly in veterinary contexts. Responsible use is important to preserve ivermectin’s effectiveness for both animal and human health.

Is ivermectin listed as an essential medicine?

Ivermectin is listed as an essential medicine for specific parasitic diseases in global health programs. This designation reflects its importance within defined uses, not universal applicability.

Can ivermectin be used long-term?

No. Long-term use is not recommended in humans due to accumulation risks and lack of evidence supporting safety or benefit beyond short treatment courses.

Why is self-medication with ivermectin dangerous?

Self-medication bypasses diagnosis, dosing accuracy, interaction checks, and monitoring. This significantly increases the risk of toxicity, treatment failure, and delayed proper care.

What should someone do if they have taken veterinary ivermectin?

They should seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms are mild or absent. Early evaluation can prevent serious complications.

Is ivermectin a “miracle drug”?

No. Ivermectin is a valuable but limited antiparasitic medication. Labeling it as a miracle drug ignores its specific indications and encourages dangerous misuse.

What is the safest takeaway about ivermectin for humans?

Ivermectin is safe and effective only when used for approved indications, at correct doses, and under medical supervision. Any deviation from this framework increases risk without proven benefit.

Sources

• World Health Organization (WHO). Ivermectin in the management of parasitic diseases and public health programs.

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Ivermectin: approved uses, safety information, and warnings against misuse.

• European Medicines Agency (EMA). Ivermectin use in humans and regulatory guidance.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Clinical guidance on ivermectin for parasitic infections.

• National Institutes of Health (NIH). Evidence reviews on ivermectin and COVID-19-related claims.

• Merck & Co. Pharmacology and safety profile of ivermectin.