Fact check: Can ivermectin cause liver damage at high dosages?

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided suggest that ivermectin can cause liver damage, particularly at high dosages ^[1]. Several studies have reported cases of serious hepatic disorders associated with the use of ivermectin for COVID-19, indicating a potential risk of liver damage ^[2]. A case report also describes a patient who developed jaundice and liver injury after taking ivermectin for COVID-19 prophylaxis, providing evidence that high dosages of ivermectin can cause liver damage ^[3]. Additionally, a source suggests that ivermectin can cause liver damage, but it is considered very rare, with a likelihood score of D (possible rare cause of mild clinically apparent liver injury) ^[1]. Another source presents a case of acute liver failure secondary to the use of ivermectin, highlighting the potential for severe liver damage, especially when taken in high doses or in combination with other medications like warfarin ^[4]. While some sources do not specifically mention liver damage, they highlight the potential for serious side effects, including those that may be related to high dosages ^{[5] [6] [7]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

• The analyses provided do not discuss the mechanism by which ivermectin causes liver damage ^{[1] [2] [3]}.
• Some sources suggest that patients with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other hepatotoxic medications may be at a higher risk of liver damage from ivermectin ^[2].
• The sources do not provide a clear definition of what constitutes a high dosage of ivermectin, which could lead to liver damage ^{[1] [2] [3]}.
• Alternative viewpoints, such as the potential benefits of ivermectin in treating COVID-19, are not discussed in the analyses provided ^{[5] [6] [7]}.
• The sources do not mention the duration of ivermectin treatment that may increase the risk of liver damage ^{[1] [2] [4]}.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement asks if ivermectin can cause liver damage at high dosages, which may be misleading as it implies a clear and direct relationship between ivermectin dosage and liver damage ^[1]. The sources provided suggest that the relationship between ivermectin and liver damage is more complex, with factors such as pre-existing liver conditions, concomitant medications, and individual susceptibility playing a role ^{[2] [4]}. Pharmaceutical companies may benefit from a more nuanced understanding of the risks associated with ivermectin, as it could impact their liability and marketing strategies ^{[5] [6] [7]}. Healthcare professionals may also benefit from a more accurate understanding of the risks associated with ivermectin, as it could inform their treatment decisions and patient counseling ^{[1] [2] [3]}.