The use of the drug ivermectin for COVID-19 has attracted a lot of controversy in the world community, including in Indonesia. This antiparasitic drug to eradicate worm and tick infections is thought to be used to treat COVID-19.
Ivermectin is a drug commonly used to treat parasitic worm infections, head lice, and some skin problems, such as rosacea and scabies. However, ivermectin is currently being investigated for its effectiveness against viral infections, especially the Corona virus or SARS-CoV-2.
Research Related to the Use of Ivermectin for COVID-19
Several health experts and institutions around the world, including the FDA, WHO, and the Indonesian Ministry of Health together with BPOM, are currently researching the potential of ivermectin as a COVID-19 drug and its effectiveness in treating COVID-19 patients.
Based on several research results related to the use of the drug ivermectin for COVID-19 so far, there are several facts that have been found, namely:
- The use of ivermectin has not been shown to be strong enough to reduce the risk of death, the need for respiratory assistance through a ventilator, the need for hospitalization, and the appearance of severe symptoms due to COVID-19.
- The use of the drug ivermectin has also not been shown to be strong enough to accelerate the healing process of COVID-19 patients.
- More research is needed with sufficient data to determine whether ivermectin is effective and safe in preventing and treating COVID-19.
- Further clinical trials are needed to examine how well ivermectin is effective and safe as a COVID-19 treatment.
Ivermectin Drug Use Facts for COVID-19
So far, some facts regarding the use of the drug ivermectin for COVID-19 from the WHO and the FDA that are important to understand are as follows:
- Ivermectin should only be used in COVID-19 patients in the scope of research as part of a controlled clinical trial.
- The use of the drug ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 is currently not recommended, especially without a doctor's supervision.
- Clinical trial data supporting the use of the drug ivermectin for COVID-19 are still very limited.
- Ivermectin is not certain whether it is useful or harmful in treating COVID-19.
- Research in the laboratory shows that ivermectin at certain doses does have an antiviral effect. However, there is no adequate clinical data regarding the specific effect of ivermectin on the Corona virus.
Risks of Using Ivermectin for COVID-19
It is important to emphasize that the use of any drug, including ivermectin, which has not been approved or approved for use by the FDA, WHO, BPOM, and the Indonesian Ministry of Health, has the potential to cause serious side effects.
Here are some of the side effects of ivermectin, especially if this drug is used carelessly and not in the right dosage:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizzy
- Rash on the skin
- Neurological disorders, such as seizures and coma
In certain cases, ivermectin can even cause allergic drug reactions and death.
So far, data regarding the use of the drug ivermectin for COVID-19 is uncertain and is still in the research stage. Therefore, it is not recommended that you take ivermectin over the counter to treat or prevent COVID-19.
In order to suppress the spread of COVID-19, the method that is still recommended is to comply with health protocols, namely wearing masks, keeping a distance from other people, washing hands frequently, and avoiding crowds, and getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
If you experience symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, anosmia or loss of smell, sore throat, or nasal congestion, immediately self-isolate and perform a PCR or rapid antigen test.
To get further guidance and determine what needs to be done, you can consult a doctor through the service chat in the ALODOKTER application. Through this application, you can also make an appointment with a doctor if you really need an in-person examination.