Elevated by social media and right-wing pundits and politicians, ivermectin is not recommended by either the FDA or its manufacturer to treat covid-19. Calls to poison control centers across the country have spiked as some have resorted to taking the version meant for livestock.

Ivermectin tablets are approved for use in humans by the FDA to treat some parasitic worms, including intestinal roundworms or those that cause river blindness. Topical treatments are also used for external parasites (head lice) and to help with skin conditions (rosacea). The version of the drug for animals like sheep and horses is commonly used as a dewormer, but is not safe for human consumption. Read more: https://wapo.st/3hmb3ly. Subscribe to The Washington Post on YouTube: https://wapo.st/2QOdcqK

Follow us:
Twitter:   / washingtonpost  
Instagram:   / washingtonpost  
Facebook:   / washingtonpost