TX Poison Control Issues Warning Amid Flood Of Calls

McClatchy News reports:

The Texas Poison Center Network has received dozens of calls this month about people exposed to ivermectin, an animal dewormer some are using for COVID-19 treatment. But the drug, which is flying off the shelves in many parts of the United States, is not a suitable treatment and health organizations are warning against its improper use.

“Patients who take concentrated forms that are used for large animals like horses and cows are more likely to experience severe side effects and toxicity,” Texas Poison Center said in a statement to McClatchy News.

Last year, the state received 23 ivermectin reports from January through August. This year, there have been 150, an increase of 552%.

Waco’s CBS affiliate reports:



Dr. Amy Mersiovsky, Director of Nursing at Texas A&M Central Texas and a farmer herself, says Ivermectin is an anti-parasite drug commonly used on horses. “We know that every medication has risks, so you need to talk with your healthcare provider,” she said.

“I want to remind everyone that Ivermectin is used for parasites. COVID-19 is a virus. Right there, it should give you an inclination that it’s not an effective treatment.” Up to this point, the Texas Poison Center Network says it’s received 150 calls about Ivermectin exposure so far this year, with 55 coming in July.