ORLANDO, Fla. — Popular podcast host Joe Rogan said he had tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday after returning home from a Florida tour, which included a stop in Orlando.
He said he is being treated with several medications, including ivermectin. But what is it? Read nine facts below:
Read: Judge orders hospital to administer ivermectin to COVID-19 patient
1. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved ivermectin for use by people and animals for some parasitic worms, head lice and skin conditions.
2. Some people are self-medicating, using dosages meant for horses to combat COVID-19.
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3. The FDA has not approved the deworming veterinary drug’s use in treating or preventing COVID-19 in humans.
4. According to the FDA, side effects for the drug include skin rash, nausea and vomiting.
Read: Coronavirus: Health officials warn against using livestock drug ivermectin to treat COVID-19
5. The FDA has received multiple reports of patients who have required medical support and been hospitalized after self-medicating with ivermectin intended for horses.
6. Ivermectin tablets are approved at very specific doses for some parasitic worms, and there are topical (on the skin) formulations for head lice and skin conditions like rosacea.
7. Ivermectin is not an anti-viral (a drug for treating viruses).
Read: Anti-parasite drug’s use at Arkansas jail sparks probe
8. Even the levels of ivermectin for approved uses can interact with other medications, like blood-thinners.
9. You can also overdose on ivermectin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension (low blood pressure), allergic reactions (itching and hives), dizziness, ataxia (problems with balance), seizures, coma and even death.
Read: Coronavirus: Podcasting host Joe Rogan says he tested positive
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