In a rather candid response to a concerning trend, the FDA recently took to social media to address the rising number of poison control calls linked to individuals consuming horse dewormers. Yes, this is the state of affairs we find ourselves in. On August 21, the Food and Drug Administration tweeted, “You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, y’all. Stop it,” along with a link to an article titled, “Why You Should Not Use Ivermectin to Treat or Prevent COVID-19.” This tweet was prompted by an alarming increase in calls to poison control centers in Mississippi, where some individuals were convinced by conspiracy theories that ivermectin, a dewormer intended for large animals, could effectively treat COVID-19.
The Mississippi Department of Health issued a warning on August 20, stating that “At least 70% of the recent calls have been related to ingestion of livestock or animal formulations of ivermectin purchased at livestock supply centers.” Fortunately, most callers reported only mild symptoms, with only one needing further medical attention. The alert cautioned, “Animal drugs are highly concentrated for large animals and can be highly toxic in humans.”
So, how did this misinformation about ivermectin emerge? Many right-wing figures promoting ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment reference a study that has since been retracted due to “ethical concerns.” The study was found to contain plagiarized sections, mismatched data, and mathematically impossible figures. Despite the lack of credible evidence, some conspiracy theorists continue to advocate for this dewormer as a miracle cure, raising concerns about the willingness of individuals to choose ivermectin over the scientifically backed COVID-19 vaccines available for humans. Notably, ivermectin is not an antiviral drug, further complicating the rationale behind its use as a treatment for COVID-19.
While there are FDA-approved uses for ivermectin in humans, such as for treating head lice or certain parasitic infections, these applications involve a significantly lower dosage than what is used for livestock. In severe cases, human ingestion of ivermectin can result in neurological disorders, seizures, and even coma. Fatalities are also possible.
It’s essential to reiterate that there is no scientific evidence supporting the use of ivermectin for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. This isn’t the first instance of conspiracy theories surrounding COVID-19 treatments, and it likely won’t be the last. Heed the advice of the FDA and the World Health Organization: Do not take horse dewormer for COVID-19. Instead, get vaccinated, wear a mask, and, once again, to emphasize: Don’t take horse dewormer for COVID.
For more helpful insights, check out this other blog post on home insemination techniques, and for authoritative information on this subject, visit this excellent resource.
Summary
The FDA warned the public against using livestock dewormers like ivermectin to treat COVID-19, citing a significant increase in poison control calls. The conspiracy theory promoting ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment is based on discredited research. The FDA emphasized that ivermectin is not an antiviral and can be dangerous for humans, urging people to trust vaccines instead.