The Truth About Ivermectin
We need to take a moment and actually have a talk about Ivermectin and its effects on not only the COVID-19 pandemic but also the effects it has on the human body. To get straight to the point, Ivermectin has not been authorized nor approved as a treatment or prevention against COVID-19. The medication is used to treat viral infections both inside and outside of the body. Ivermectin is safe to use, IF it is prescribed in the correct dosage by a qualified physician. The issue with taking Ivermectin lies in the fact that the medication is not only used by humans.
You see, Ivermectin is not exclusively taken by humans. Other species, like horses, are prescribed Ivermectin to fight internal and external infections also. This is where the issues begin because individuals are taking it upon themselves to buy over the counter versions that are meant for use on animals. The formulation and overall strength of the medicine is not made for human biology. The unprescribed use of Ivermectin to treat COVD-19 can actually lead to some adverse side effects.
What Are The Side Effects of Taking Ivermectin?
The side effects of ivermectin overdose can include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Overdoses are associated with hypotension and neurologic effects such as decreased consciousness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, coma, and death. Ivermectin may potentiate the effects of other drugs that cause central nervous system depression such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates.
So Where’s The Confusion?
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), “Ivermectin has been shown to inhibit the replication of SARS-CoV-2, a potentially deadly virus that can lead to COVID-19, in cell cultures. However, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies suggest that achieving the plasma concentrations necessary for the antiviral efficacy detected in vitro would require administration of doses up to 100-fold higher than those approved for use in humans”. Overall, the confusion on Ivermectin’s effectiveness against COVID-19 lies in only some of the facts being publicized. We encourage you to talk to a doctor about how to correctly be treated for COVID-19.
Why We Care
At HealthCARE Express, we know that times right now are scary and the information being put out there is not always reliable. That’s why when we heard that the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) had stated that they have seen an increase in reports about adverse effects associated with Ivermectin in 2021 when compared to a pre-pandemic baseline, we had to talk about it. Since early July 2021, outpatient ivermectin dispensing has again begun to rapidly increase, reaching more than 88,000 prescriptions in the week ending August 13, 2021. This represents an increase of 24 times the pre-pandemic number. If you are worried about possible ingestion of Ivermectin and it’s relation to the COVID-19 Virus, then please follow the information below from the CDC.
“As important as medicines are, having a strong immune system is just as important. Make sure you are getting the right amount of exercise, sun, and nutrition every day,” says Dr. Timothy Reynolds owner of Healthcare Express.
The CDC Recommendations for the Public:
- Be aware that currently, ivermectin has not been proven as a way to prevent or treat COVID-19.
- Do not swallow ivermectin products that should be used on skin (e.g., lotions and creams) or are not meant for human use, such as veterinary ivermectin products.
- Seek immediate medical attention or call the poison control center hotline (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 gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea), headache, blurred vision, dizziness, fast heart rate, and low blood pressure. Other severe nervous system effects have been reported, including tremors, seizures, hallucinations, confusion, loss of coordination and balance, decreased alertness, and coma.
- Get vaccinated against COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccination is approved by FDA and is the safest and most effective way to prevent getting sick and protect against severe disease and death from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, including the Delta variant.
- Protect yourself and others from getting sick with COVID-19. In addition to vaccination, wear masks in indoor public places, practice staying at least six feet from other people who don’t live in your household, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, and wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer that has at least 60 percent alcohol.
The only true way to get treatment of COVID-19 and it’s symptoms is to be seen by a trained medical provider. Visit us in person at any HealthCARE Express or call us now for more information on how to protect yourself and your family.
Dr. Timothy Reynolds, MD
For more about health and wellness visit our sister blog at livingeveryminute.com where Tim Reynolds MD shares more insight into creating a spectacular life.
Tim Reynolds, MD is a physician, entrepreneur, and teacher. His mission is to help others create a spectacular life and become the best self they can create. An owner and operator of several successful businesses, Dr. Tim aids others in infusing passion in their businesses, relationships, health and finances. He is the author of "Living Every Minute: Dr. Tim's Pillars for Creating a Spectacular Life," an international bestseller in six countries across multiple business and self-help categories.
Grab your copy of Living Every Minute: Dr. Tim's Pillars for Creating a Spectacular Life on amazon or audible.
