Fact check: What is the current research on ivermectin's effectiveness against COVID-19 variants?

1. Summary of the results

The current research on ivermectin's effectiveness against COVID-19 variants, as indicated by the analyses provided, suggests that ivermectin does not significantly reduce key clinical outcomes such as all-cause mortality, mechanical ventilation, ICU admission, or hospitalization in COVID-19 patients, including those infected with newer variants ^[1]. The analyses from multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses, including one with 33 studies and 15,376 participants ^[1] and another with 33 RCTs and 10,489 participants ^[2], conclude that ivermectin shows no significant effect on mortality, viral clearance, length of stay, or symptom resolution. While there are some modest benefits in faster symptom alleviation ^[1] and a reduction in mechanical-ventilation requirement and adverse events ^[2], the overall evidence does not support ivermectin as an effective treatment against current SARS-CoV-2 variants. Regulatory agencies, as noted in a CDC/FDA/NIH news release ^[3], warn against off-label use of ivermectin outside trials due to safety concerns and lack of proven benefit.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some key points to consider that are not explicitly mentioned in the original statement include:

• The need for high-quality RCTs with varied dosing and longer follow-up to clarify any potential benefit of ivermectin ^[1].
• The fact that WHO, NIH, and IDSA guidelines recommend ivermectin only within clinical trials due to insufficient evidence ^[2].
• The importance of considering safety concerns associated with the use of ivermectin, particularly when used off-label ^[3].
• Alternative treatment options for COVID-19 that have been proven effective, which are not mentioned in the analyses provided.
• The potential for conflicting interests or biases in research on ivermectin, which could impact the validity of the findings.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be considered too narrow in its focus on ivermectin's effectiveness against COVID-19 variants, without considering the broader context of COVID-19 treatment options ^{[1] [2] [3]}. Additionally, the statement does not acknowledge the lack of credible clinical evidence supporting the use of ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment, as emphasized by regulatory agencies ^[3]. The pharmaceutical industry, researchers with conflicting interests, and individuals promoting ivermectin as a treatment may benefit from an overly positive interpretation of the existing evidence, while public health organizations and regulatory agencies may benefit from a more cautious approach, emphasizing the need for rigorous testing and evidence-based decision-making ^{[1] [2] [3]}.