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Ivermectin

Ivermectin Overview:

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication that is widely used to treat a variety of parasitic infections, such as onchocerciasis (river blindness), strongyloidiasis, scabies, and lice. It was first introduced in the 1980s and has since become a staple in global health due to its effectiveness and safety profile when used as directed. It works by binding to specific channels in parasites’ nervous systems, causing paralysis and death of the parasite.

Mechanism of Action: Ivermectin selectively binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels found in the nervous systems of many invertebrates, including parasites. This action leads to an influx of chloride ions, causing hyperpolarization and paralysis in the parasite. Ivermectin also has activity against certain viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens at higher doses, but its main action is antiparasitic.

Off-label Use of Ivermectin in Cancer Treatment:

In recent years, ivermectin has gained attention for potential off-label use in the treatment of cancer. This interest has been fueled by early-stage laboratory studies and animal models suggesting that ivermectin may have antitumor effects. While these studies are promising, it's important to note that the evidence in humans is limited. Here’s an overview of the potential mechanisms and research surrounding ivermectin’s off-label use in cancer therapy:

1. Antitumor Activity (Cell Line Studies)

Several preclinical studies have shown that ivermectin has a cytotoxic effect on cancer cells, particularly in breast, lung, and colon cancers. In laboratory settings, ivermectin has been observed to:

  • Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.

  • Inhibits cell proliferation by interfering with cellular processes that are critical for tumor growth.

  • Inhibits the migration and invasion of cancer cells, showing that ivermectin impacts metastasis (the spread of cancer to other parts of the body).

Mechanisms by which ivermectin exerts its anticancer effects:

  • Modulation of drug resistance: Ivermectin inhibits the function of P-glycoprotein, a membrane protein involved in the efflux of chemotherapeutic agents from cancer cells, enhancing the effectiveness of other anticancer drugs.

  • Autophagy: Some studies show that ivermectin induces autophagy (a process where cells degrade and recycle their components), which can both inhibit and promote tumor growth depending on the context.

  • Angiogenesis inhibition: There is some evidence that ivermectin reduces the ability of tumors to form new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which is essential for tumor growth and metastasis.

2. Combination with Other Therapies

Ivermectin has also been tested in combination with conventional chemotherapy agents and immunotherapy to assess its ability to enhance the effectiveness of these treatments. Preliminary data suggest that ivermectin helps sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy or overcome resistance to certain drugs.

3. Potential Targeting of Cancer Stem Cells

A particularly intriguing aspect of ivermectin’s role in cancer treatment is its ability to target cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are thought to be responsible for tumor initiation, growth, and recurrence. Some studies have shown that ivermectin can reduce the viability and self-renewal capacity of CSCs in certain types of cancer, potentially leading to better long-term treatment outcomes.

Safety and Side Effects

Therapeutic Doses:

  • Generally safe when taken at recommended doses.

  • Approved for human use by regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA) for specific conditions.

  • Up to 2mg/kg/day has been established as tolerable for humans (Guzzo, et al., 2002).

  • Common Side Effects

    Ivermectin is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include:

    1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

    2. Neurological Effects: Dizziness, headache, or fatigue.

    3. Skin Reactions: Rash or itching (especially with conditions like scabies, where the body reacts to dying parasites).

    4. Temporary visual disturbances at higher doses.

Important Reference Links For More Information:

The first 2 links review 16 different Ivermectin papers and the 3rd has links to 20 more papers specific to various cancers:

DISCLAIMER

Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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