The Food and Drug Administration on Monday warned the public against the purchase and consumption of veterinary drug Ivermectin after reports of individuals ingesting it as medicine against COVID-19.
Originally meant to address parasitic infections in animals, registered Ivermectin products can also be used by humans provided that it must have a topical formulation under prescription use only.
"The registered oral and intravenous preparations of Ivermectin are veterinary products which are approved for use in animals for the prevention of heartworm disease and treatment of internal and external parasites in certain animal species. The drug is an important part of a parasite control program for some animal species and should only be administered according to its approved indication, or as prescribed by a duly licensed veterinarian," the FDA said in an advisory.
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Using Ivermectin veterinary products for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 is discouraged as its benefits and safety have not been established.
The FDA has not approved Ivermectin as a treatment for any viral infection. Prior to approval, data from clinical trials must first determine whether Ivermectin is safe and effective in treating or preventing COVID-19.
Following issues on its use, the FDA clarified that there is no ban on the purchase and use of Ivermectin, as long as such products are registered with the regulatory agency, both for human and veterinary use.
Humans afflicted with external parasites such as head lice and skin conditions such as rosacea may still be prescribed topical formulations of Ivermectin as treatment.
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