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.
August 2020, the Texas Poison Control Network got 2 calls for ivermectin.
This August, they’ve had 55 so far.Many North Texas stores are sold out of the horse and cow dewormer with people using it for COVID-19 despite an FDA warning.
More at 10 on @wfaahttps://t.co/5oBBajw3bq pic.twitter.com/qjEO6F2bqW— William Joy (@WilliamJoy) August 26, 2021
Please don’t take Ivermectin for Covid. It doesn’t work. Texas poison control spikes 550%. Please stop.https://t.co/h5PVW0ogn9
— GeezMc ?? ?? ?? (@BeOnePeople) August 26, 2021