Potential Toxicity of Human Use of Animal Formulations of Ivermectin
The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) is concerned about reports of individuals using veterinary formulations of ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 and would like Arkansans to know the following important points:
• The Arkansas Poison Control Center has received an increasing number of calls regarding individuals who took ivermectin intended for animal or livestock use (such as that purchased at livestock supply centers).
• Drugs intended for veterinary use are made with higher doses of the medication for use in large animals and can be highly toxic in humans.
• Some of the symptoms associated with ivermectin toxicity include rash, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, neurologic disorders, and potentially severe hepatitis requiring hospitalization.
• There are approved uses for ivermectin in both humans and animals. ADH advises people to never take any medications intended to treat animals and to only take ivermectin as prescribed by their physician.
• Arkansans caring for someone with symptoms of illness related to ingestion of ivermectin should call the Arkansas Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Medical providers can call the same number to report a case and ask for advice.