Ivermectin, a drug familiar to farmers and pet owners, has become a focal point of health and political discourse, especially in conservative circles. MaryJo Perry, who raises animals near Jackson, Miss., considers the drug a reliable solution for her livestock and stray dogs, stating, “We’ve been using it on the farm for 40 years.” To her, ivermectin is as routine as vitamins, with no noticeable side effects over the years.
The drug’s utility spans both animal and human health, combating parasitic infections such as roundworm, lice, and scabies, and showing promise against tropical diseases and potentially malaria. Ivermectin gained its status as a ‘wonder drug’ following its discovery in the 1970s, notably reducing river blindness cases. However, its perceived effectiveness against COVID-19 has been debunked through numerous studies, although the drug’s popularity surged during the pandemic, driven by misinformation.
Perry, who organized a political event on medical freedom, remains steadfast in her belief in ivermectin’s effectiveness against COVID-19, despite scientific evidence to the contrary. “I believe that it prevents COVID; I know that firsthand,” she asserts.
Recently, ivermectin’s availability has expanded, with legislatures in five states, including Texas, approving over-the-counter sales. This decision has sparked concern among healthcare professionals who fear potential misuse or the replacement of proven treatments with ivermectin.
Ivermectin Prescriptions on the Rise
At the height of the pandemic, ivermectin prescriptions reached tenfold their usual level as doctors prescribed it off-label, particularly in the southern states and among older patients. According to Dr. John Mafi of UCLA, who tracks these prescriptions, the numbers began to climb again in 2024, fueled by misinformation and distrust of health institutions.
“It became a symbol of an alternative right-wing movement,” says Mafi, suggesting that political motives, rather than medical evidence, are driving policy changes regarding ivermectin. The drug, while effective against parasites, can cause adverse effects in humans, including nausea and dizziness, and in extreme cases, can lead to coma or death, as warned by the FDA.
A Dubious Substitute for Proven Treatments
Recently, the National Cancer Institute, led by Anthony Letai, began preclinical studies on ivermectin’s potential anti-cancer properties, though current evidence shows little promise. Despite this, Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis, has highlighted ivermectin in cancer research funding announcements, even though adequate evidence of its efficacy is lacking.
Oncologist Jonathan Mizrahi from New Orleans reports a rise in cancer patients inquiring about ivermectin, influenced by misinformation and public figures. He recounts a patient who opted for ivermectin over chemotherapy, only to see his cancer progress. “It’s heartbreaking,” Mizrahi laments, emphasizing the need for open doctor-patient communication to counter misinformation.
The Journey of Ivermectin’s Popularity
Spanish researcher Carlos Chaccour describes ivermectin’s rise as a political litmus test, rooted in early pandemic events. Initially tested for its potential against COVID-19, ivermectin’s reputation was tarnished by fraudulent research from a company called Surgisphere, which falsely claimed effectiveness against COVID-19.
Despite the discrediting of Surgisphere’s research, ivermectin’s adoption spread across Latin America, driven by desperate measures against the virus. “People start taking it — of course people start taking it,” Chaccour explains, noting the drug was inexpensive and accessible.
Deepening Divides
Media figures like Laura Ingraham and Joe Rogan helped bring the ivermectin debate to the U.S., further polarizing public opinion. The FDA’s controversial tweet warning against ivermectin use, later retracted, only heightened tensions. Chaccour advocates for a unified focus on health to depoliticize the drug and preserve its global health benefits.
NPR’s Katia Riddle contributed to this report.
Copyright 2026 NPR
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