Compound Library/Pharmaceuticals/Ivermectin

Ivermectin

FDA ApprovedExtensive Research

Also known as: Stromectol · Soolantra · Sklice

A Nobel Prize-winning anti-parasitic medication with emerging research showing potent anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties.

Overview

Ivermectin is a macrocyclic lactone derived from the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis. Originally developed in the 1970s as a veterinary anti-parasitic, it was later approved for human use to treat conditions like onchocerciasis (river blindness) and strongyloidiasis, earning its discoverers the 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine. Beyond its well-established anti-parasitic effects, recent research has uncovered its broader pharmacological potential. In the health optimization and longevity space, ivermectin has gained attention for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to modulate the immune system. It has been shown to inhibit the nuclear transport of viral proteins, which is the basis for its studied anti-viral effects.

Additionally, emerging in vitro and animal studies suggest it may have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and reversing multidrug resistance. While it remains primarily prescribed for parasitic infections and rosacea (topically), its safety profile and pleiotropic effects make it a compound of significant interest in off-label therapeutic protocols.

Mechanism of Action

Primarily binds to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells, causing paralysis and death of parasites. In humans (where these channels are restricted to the CNS and protected by the blood-brain barrier), it exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB pathway activation and reducing cytokine production. It also inhibits importin α/β1-mediated nuclear transport, which many viruses use to evade the immune response.

Key Benefits

Potent anti-parasitic activity against nematodes and ectoparasites

Strong anti-inflammatory effects via NF-κB inhibition

Potential anti-viral properties (inhibits nuclear transport)

Emerging research on anti-cancer mechanisms (apoptosis induction)

Effective topical treatment for rosacea and skin inflammation

Excellent safety profile with decades of human use data

Potential Side Effects

Nausea

Dizziness

Diarrhea

Mild skin rash

Fatigue

Rare neurotoxicity (if blood-brain barrier is compromised)

Common Stacks

This compound is commonly combined with the following for synergistic effects:

ZincVitamin DVitamin CQuercetin

Scientific References

Ivermectin: a multifaceted drug of Nobel prize-honoured distinction with indicated efficacy against a new global scourge, COVID-19

Santin AD, Scheim DE, McCullough PA, et al.

New Microbes and New Infections (2021)

The FDA-approved drug ivermectin inhibits the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro

Caly L, Druce JD, Catton MG, et al.

Antiviral Research (2020)

Ivermectin has New Application in Inhibiting Colorectal Cancer Cell Growth

Jiang L, Wang P, Sun YJ, et al.

Frontiers in Pharmacology (2021)

Quick Reference

Typical Dose

0.2-0.4 mg/kg body weight (oral) for standard indications. Off-label protocols vary significantly.

Frequency

Single dose to daily depending on the specific protocol and indication

Route

Oral tablet or topical cream

Half-Life

~18 hours

Cycle Length

Typically short-term use (1-5 days) for acute issues; longer protocols exist for chronic conditions

FDA Status

FDA approved for specific parasitic infections and rosacea; off-label for other uses

Need to calculate dosing?

Use our reconstitution calculator to determine exact syringe measurements.

Open Calculator

This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any compound. Dosing information reflects commonly reported protocols and may not be appropriate for everyone.

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