Jahnavi Sarma
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Written By: Jahnavi Sarma | Published : August 28, 2021 9:44 PM IST
FDA states categorically that it has not “approved ivermectin for use in treating or preventing COVID-19 in humans”.
To fight the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists have repurposed many existing drugs for the treatment of this viral disease. Some have been since approved by the US food and Drug Administration for the same. But many social media platforms like Facebook and Reddit, carry posts that spread misinformation about treatment protocols. One popular drug doing the rounds on these platforms is Ivermectin. Seeking to clear the air, the FDA has issued a warning against the use of Ivermectin for treating COVID-19 patients. The warning explains why people should not take this drug to treat or prevent the viral respiratory disease. Ivermectin is anti-parasite drug used in the treatment of infections due to parasites.
People are desperate to have a cure for COVID-19 and also look for ways by which they can save themselves from getting infected by the virus. Towards this end, many look at unconventional treatment options and often follow advice or tips on social media platforms blindly. Many of these treatments are not approved or authorised by the FDA and are likely to be dangerous for people following them. Since Ivermectin features a lot in such posts, the FDA states categorically that it has not "approved ivermectin for use in treating or preventing COVID-19 in humans".
Ivermectin tablets are prescription drugs and the dosage is meant to be followed strictly under a doctor's guidance. These drugs are approved for the treatment of some parasitic worms. There is also a topical version of this medication that is meant for use in the treatment of head lice and rosacea. It is definitely not an anti-viral drug. The FDA warning states that "taking large doses of this drug is dangerous and can cause serious harm".
Many Facebook groups share misinformation and carries sponsored posts promoting and advertising ivermectin for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Though Facebook removes such content, people usually find a way to violate the guidelines. Beware of euphemisms like "ivm" or "moo juice" for ivermectin on Facebook.
This kind of misinformation is spread on Reddit also. Moderators of several subreddits have pointed this out and asked the concerned authorities to take action against COVID-19 misinformation.
TikTok is another platform where Ivermectin is being promoted as a COVID-19 treatment. Beware of tags like #ivermectin4covid and #ivermectinworks, though TikTok has removed the videos and blocked the tags.
So far, the FDA has not reviewed any data that supports the use of ivermectin in patients to treat or prevent COVID-19. But the organisation admits that some initial research is underway. But till it reaches a conclusion on its safety and efficacy, it is better to avoid taking this drug.
(With inputs from IANS)
