Ivermectin: The “Miracle” That Keeps Everyone Guessing
In Singapore, a buzz around ivermectin, a parasite‑busting pill, has turned into a full‑blown rumor mill. Claims that it can slash COVID‑19 symptoms—or even soothe post‑vaccine jitters—are popping up on forums, memes, and chat groups. The hype is so hot that people are buying, sharing, and even self‑medicating in hopes of a silver‑bullet cure.
What the Experts Say
The official verdict from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is clear: there is no solid proof ivermectin can treat COVID‑19, and it can be dangerous if taken improperly.
- In a 5 October advisory, HSA warned that ivermectin should only be prescribed by a doctor for parasite infections.
- The agency is cracking down on illegal sales; offenders may face up to $50,000 in fines and two years of jail time.
Real‑World Stories (And a Few Shockers)
Last Friday, Madam Wong Lee Tak, 65, was hospitalized after snapping up 1,000 ivermectin tablets (worth $110) at her friends’ behest. She allegedly took four 3 mg pills before hitting the hospital – a dose that far exceeds the standard single oral dose of 0.15 mg per kg.
She remains in stable condition, but experts suspect she suffered a toxic overload rather than a cure.
Telegram Talk and the “Ivermectin Hero” Myth
- In the “SG Covid La Kopi” chat, some members blamed Madam Wong’s sickness on her Sinopharm shot instead of ivermectin.
- “The front line” alliance is cited by some users; the group is controversial for ties to anti‑vaccine organisations.
- Others claim it can defeat any variant, or point to a database of studies, but most have shaky evidence.
Doctor’s Take
Dr. Leong Hoe Nam from the Rophi Clinic swore that many “ivermectin studies” are riddled with flaws and huge, unsafe doses. He only prescribes ivermectin as a single dose for parasite bugs like roundworms or scabies, and cautions against any higher dosage.
Market Mania: Prices, Prescriptions, and the US Surge
- Prescriptions jumped by 88,000 per week in mid‑August, compared to 3,600 before the pandemic.
- Florida, Mississippi, and Texas poison‑control centers are witnessing overdose spikes.
- The drug is still in high demand in the U.S., despite the FDA’s warning that it isn’t a COVID‑19 treatment.
From Worms to “Wonder Drug”
Developed in the 1970s from a microbe that fights worms in mice, ivermectin first served horses and only got FDA approval for humans in 1996. It became known as a “wonder drug” for parasitic infections. Scientists later re‑examined it as a possible COVID‑19 remedy.
Early July 2020 studies showed that a massive, unverified dose could tamp down the virus in lab models. This headline‑dank claim turned into a cornerstone for the myth that ivermectin is a panacea.
Why Some Still Doubt Villainous Vaccines and Trust This Pill
“The idea of a repurposed drug that’s always ready under our noses is seductive,” notes Dr. Leong. He worries about echo chambers: people lock into their unshakeable beliefs and shut out reality.
Bottom Line
- Health authorities are hot on the trail of illegal sale and misuse.
- Medical consensus: no evidence that ivermectin treats COVID‑19; it’s not a cure.
- Take only what a licensed practitioner prescribes, and stick to the approved dose.
So, next time you spot a snippet praising ivermectin, remember: it’s not a “do‑it‑yourself” vaccine. Keep your skepticism handy and your prescription handy.
