Does ivermectin help with cancer?

Short Answer: Ivermectin has demonstrated anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies through multiple mechanisms including Wnt pathway inhibition and PAK1 suppression, but human clinical evidence is limited to early-phase trials.

Evidence Level: preliminary

Detailed Answer

Ivermectin, a Nobel Prize-winning antiparasitic, has shown anti-tumor activity in preclinical models across breast, ovarian, glioblastoma, and leukemia cell lines. Key mechanisms include: inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, PAK1 kinase suppression, chloride channel modulation inducing apoptosis, and P-glycoprotein inhibition (potentially reversing multidrug resistance). Tang et al. (2021, Pharmacol Res) reviewed 21 preclinical studies showing dose-dependent anti-proliferative effects. However, achievable human plasma concentrations at safe doses may be below effective anti-cancer thresholds seen in vitro. A few Phase I/II trials are underway (NCT02366884 for breast cancer). Ivermectin should not replace standard oncology treatment.

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