Health Canada is wading into the ivermectin issue.
The department has received reports about the use of the veterinary version of the drug to prevent or treat COVID-19.
Officials call them 'concerning'.
Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic agent that comes in a number of forms including tablets, paste, oral solution, injectable solution, medicated premix or topical.
Health Canada states that the veterinary version of ivermectin, especially at high doses, can be dangerous for humans and may cause serious health problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, allergic reactions, dizziness, seizures, coma and even death. Ivermectin products for animals have a higher concentrated dose than ivermectin products for people.
Officials also state there is no evidence that ivermectin in either formulation is safe or effective when used for prevention or treatment of COVID-19.
Ivermectin is a prescription drug product and is authorized for sale in Canada for the treatment of parasitic worm infections in humans with a veterinary version of the medication available to treat parasitic infections in animals.
#ADVISORY: #Canadians should never consume veterinary products because of potential serious risks to health. Ivermectin, an antiparasitic agent, has not been approved for use against #COVID19 and may cause serious health problems. https://t.co/iOBtKgBIfV
— Health Canada and PHAC (@GovCanHealth) August 31, 2021