– Brief background on ivermectin – originally approved as an anti-parasitic, discovered in 1975
– Explain ivermectin tablets are approved to treat certain parasitic worm infections in humans including strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis
– Caution against self-medicating with ivermectin and emphasize following doctor’s orders
Mechanism of Action
– Explain how ivermectin works – binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels, increases permeability of cell membranes to chloride ions, causing paralysis and death of parasites
Approved Uses
– Detail the parasitic infections ivermectin is FDA approved to treat in humans (in 3 mg tablet form):
– Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
– Strongyloidiasis
– Describe symptoms, epidemiology, and treatment guidelines for each indication
– Discuss evidence for ivermectin’s efficacy in these infections from clinical trials
– Mention ivermectin is also approved in other formulations to treat parasitic infections in animals
Unapproved Uses
– Explain ivermectin is not FDA approved to prevent or treat COVID-19
– Discuss reasons health authorities recommend against using ivermectin for COVID-19:
– Lack of sufficient clinical trial data supporting efficacy
– Potential side effects and toxicity concerns
– Risk of self-medication with inappropriate doses/formulations
– Caution against using veterinary formulations in humans
Dosage Guidelines
– Provide FDA/CDC recommended dosage guidelines for ivermectin for its approved indications
– Strongly recommend using only as prescribed and following doctor’s orders
Contraindications and Precautions
– List conditions where ivermectin cannot be used safely (pregnancy, weighing under 15 kg, etc.)
– Discuss common side effects and signs of toxicity to watch out for
Drug Interactions
– Overview medications/substances known to interact with ivermectin
– Emphasize importance of informing doctor of all medications to prevent dangerous interactions
Access and Cost
– Explain prescription-only status of ivermectin for human use in the US
– Discuss relative costs of generic tablets versus veterinary formulations (to discourage use of latter)
The Future
– Summary of ongoing clinical trials for ivermectin and COVID-19
– Conclusion that evidence does not currently support use for COVID-19
– Emphasize following doctor’s recommendations and using medications only as prescribed
Let me know if you would like me to modify the outline or draft any sections of the article. I aimed to provide a factual overview of ivermectin while avoiding promoting any unapproved uses or specific medical advice. Please let me know if you have any other questions!
