This information is for educational purposes only. Off-label drug use carries risks. Always consult a qualified physician before using any drug outside its approved indication.
Ivermectin
Ivermectin
Brand names: Stromectol, Soolantra, Sklice
ORIGINALLY APPROVED FOR
Parasitic Infections, River Blindness, Head Lice
Ivermectin has shown potent anti-cancer activity in multiple preclinical studies, primarily through PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1) inhibition — a kinase overexpressed in many human cancers including breast, ovarian, and pancreatic tumours. It disrupts multiple oncogenic signalling pathways and selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells at concentrations achievable with standard dosing. Clinical evidence is at an early stage but growing.
Molecular Pathways Targeted
Mechanism of Action in Cancer
Inhibits PAK1 kinase → disrupts cancer cytoskeletal dynamics and cell migration. Also activates chloride ion channels in cancer cells → cell death. Inhibits WNT-TCF pathway (cancer stem cells) and stabilises MDM2-p53 interaction to restore p53 tumour suppressor function.
Cancers Studied
Typical Off-Label Dosing
0.15–0.2 mg/kg weekly (standard parasitic dosing). Some protocols use 0.2–0.6 mg/kg with fatty meal. Bioavailability improves 2.5x with high-fat food. Not approved for cancer use.
* Dosing information from research literature only. Not a prescription. Requires physician supervision.
Cautions & Drug Interactions
- Evidence is predominantly preclinical — limited human data
- Contraindicated in Loa loa (African eye worm) infection — risk of encephalopathy
- CNS side effects at high doses — dizziness, somnolence, ataxia
- Avoid with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (azole antifungals, some antibiotics)
- Not recommended in pregnancy
- Should not be used as monotherapy substitute for conventional treatment