Recent laboratory research suggests the antiparasitic drug ivermectin, controversial during the COVID-19 pandemic, may have unexpected potential as a cancer treatment when combined with other therapies.
At a Glance
- Ivermectin has shown anticancer properties in multiple laboratory studies across different cancer types, including pancreatic and colorectal cancers
- When combined with recombinant methioninase (rMETase), ivermectin reduced pancreatic cancer cell viability by 80% in laboratory testing
- Research indicates ivermectin may help overcome chemotherapy resistance in certain lung cancers
- Despite promising laboratory results, ivermectin is not currently approved for cancer treatment by major health organizations
- More clinical trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy before ivermectin can be recommended for cancer patients
From Parasite Treatment to Potential Cancer Fighter
Ivermectin, a medication primarily known for treating parasitic infections in humans and animals, is gaining attention in cancer research circles. Initially developed as a veterinary antiparasitic, this drug has demonstrated anticancer efficacy across various cancer types in preclinical laboratory studies. Researchers are particularly interested in ivermectin because it appears to inhibit cancer cell growth by modulating vital cellular pathways while maintaining a favorable toxicity profile.
We advance medical care through carefully designed #ClinicalTrials.
Is someone going to do a randomized study of this “protocol” versus established #cancer care?
What do you honestly think would happen to people? 🤔 https://t.co/B01RVnylms
— Shernan Holtan MD (@sghmd) February 2, 2025
Pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive forms with limited treatment options, may benefit from ivermectin-based approaches. A recent study published in Anticancer Research investigated the combination of ivermectin with recombinant methioninase (rMETase), an enzyme that targets the methionine addiction common in cancer cells. This combination significantly reduced the viability of pancreatic cancer cells by 80% in laboratory tests, compared to a 45% reduction with ivermectin alone.
How Ivermectin Attacks Cancer Cells
Laboratory research points to several mechanisms by which ivermectin may combat cancer. In colorectal cancer cells, researchers found that ivermectin inhibited cell growth in a dose-dependent manner and promoted apoptosis (programmed cell death). The drug upregulated pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax and cleaved PARP while downregulating the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Additionally, ivermectin induced S-phase cell cycle arrest, effectively stopping cancer cells from completing their replication cycle.
Another promising application appears in research on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), where chemoresistance to paclitaxel (PTX) presents a significant treatment challenge. Studies indicate ivermectin may regulate P-glycoprotein expression through the EGFR/ERK/Akt/NF-κB pathway, potentially overcoming drug resistance. When combined with paclitaxel, ivermectin significantly inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in resistant lung cancer cells, suggesting a possible strategy to enhance standard chemotherapy effectiveness.
Clinical Research and Cautions
Despite encouraging laboratory results, the transition from preclinical studies to approved cancer treatments requires substantial clinical evidence. Currently, the National Cancer Institute lists a Phase I clinical trial investigating ivermectin in combination with immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer, indicating growing interest in its potential. However, no major health organizations have approved ivermectin for cancer treatment, and patients should be cautious about unproven claims.
Exciting News in Cancer Research!
For the first time ever, a groundbreaking study on the use of Ivermectin, Mebendazole, and Fenbendazole in cancer treatment has been peer-reviewed and published on September 19, 2024.The study included the use of Vitamin D, Vitamin C and Zinc… pic.twitter.com/7xqgPORBNA
— Dr Patrick Quillin, PhD,RD,CNS (@QuillinPatrick) October 19, 2024
The Kaiser Family Foundation has expressed concern about the spread of misinformation regarding ivermectin as a cancer treatment. As public trust in traditional health providers declines, some patients are turning to social media and wellness influencers for health information, where unverified treatments are often promoted. This trend highlights the need for rigorous clinical research before any conclusions about ivermectin’s efficacy against cancer can be drawn.
Future Directions
Researchers acknowledge the limitations of current studies, most of which are restricted to laboratory experiments on single cell lines. Further research is needed to explore the molecular mechanisms of ivermectin’s anticancer effects and assess its toxicity profile in humans when used for cancer treatment. Additionally, combination approaches with established therapies and natural compounds are being explored to potentially enhance efficacy and reduce side effects.
For patients interested in emerging cancer treatments, participation in clinical trials offers the safest approach to accessing experimental therapies under medical supervision. As research progresses, the scientific community will determine whether ivermectin truly represents a meaningful addition to cancer treatment options or if its anticancer properties are limited to laboratory settings.
