MCHD warns public not to self-treat with Ivermectin

The CDC Health Alert Network recently issued an alert to public health agencies and health care providers regarding the increasing numbers of individuals using Ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19. Officials have seen an increase in the dispensing of Ivermectin by retail pharmacies and use of animal formulations available over the counter but not intended for human use. 

Poison control centers have seen a rise in calls reporting overdoses and people experiencing adverse effects from taking Ivermectin. 

Additionally, there have been reports of individuals requiring medical attention and hospitalization after self-medicating with Ivermectin that is intended for horses. 

The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) issued a press release on Tuesday which stated, “The public should know that the FDA has not approved or issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for Ivermectin to be used to treat or prevent COVID-19.” 

While there have been studies exploring the use of Ivermectin to treat COVID-19, the National Institute of Health has determined that there is currently insufficient data to recommend Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment at this time. 

Ivermectin is approved at very specific doses to treat people for some parasitic worms as well as on the skin for head lice and skin conditions like rosacea. Some forms of Ivermectin are used in animals to prevent heartworm and certain parasites. 

According to MCHD, people should not take any form of Ivermectin unless it has been prescribed to them by a licensed health care provider and is obtained through a legitimate source. 

“It is unsafe to take large doses of Ivermectin and doing so can cause serious harm to your health,” the statement further stated. “Do not swallow Ivermectin products that should be used on skin such as lotions or creams. Additionally, never use medications intended for animals on yourself.” 

The forms of Ivermectin used for animals are very different from those approved for humans. Drugs used on animals are often highly concentrated because they are used for large animals such as horses and cows, which weigh much more than humans. 

These high doses can be highly toxic for humans. Seek immediate medical attention or call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for advice if you have taken Ivermectin or a product that contains Ivermectin and are having symptoms. 

Signs and symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, fast heart rate and low blood pressure. Other severe symptoms have been reported, including tremors, seizures, hallucinations, confusion, loss of coordination and balance, decreased alertness and coma. 

According to MCHD, the safest and most effective way to prevent getting sick and protect against severe disease and death from COVID-19 is vaccination. In addition to vaccination, the MCHD recommends individuals wear masks in indoor public places, practice staying at least six feet from other people who don’t live in the same household as you, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, and wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer that has at least 60 percent alcohol. 

For more information, please contact MCHD at (608) 269-8666, e-mail covid19@co.monroe.wi.us or visit its COVID-19 webpage at http://healthymonroecowi.org/covid-19.