Advisory on the Use of Ivermectin for Unproven Clinical Uses

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) advises members of the public not to purchase, import or use ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of conditions for which it has not been proven to be safe and effective. These include the prevention or treatment of viral infections such as COVID-19 and Zika virus infection, immune-related conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as various cancers and other conditions for which there is no established evidence of benefit.

Ivermectin is a prescription-only medicine in Singapore. Doctors may prescribe oral ivermectin for the treatment of parasitic worm infections, while its topical formulation is used for the treatment of a skin condition known as rosacea. It has not been proven effective for any other use. There is no robust scientific evidence from well-conducted clinical trials to support its use for viral infections, immune-related conditions, or cancers.

Self-medicating with ivermectin can be dangerous. It may lead individuals to wrongly believe that ivermectin can protect them or treat their condition. This may delay proper medical diagnosis and treatment, and expose them to unnecessary harm. Ivermectin may also interact with other medications, including blood-thinners, which may increase the risk of bleeding.

Side effects associated with ivermectin include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, neurologic adverse events (dizziness, seizures, confusion), a sudden drop in blood pressure, severe skin rash that may require hospitalisation, and liver injury (hepatitis).

Advice for consumers:

• Do not self-medicate with ivermectin.

• Do not purchase ivermectin from online platforms, overseas websites or other unauthorised sources, as such products may be illegal, counterfeit, substandard or unsafe.

• Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis of your condition, appropriate treatment and medical advice.

• Be cautious of unverified health claims, particularly those circulating online or on social media. Only medicines approved by HSA have met the required safety, efficacy and quality standards.

Advisory to sellers and suppliers

HSA takes a serious view of the illegal sale and supply of medicines, including ivermectin, and will take strong enforcement action against offenders. Under the Health Products Act, anyone convicted of the illegal sale of medicines faces a fine of up to $50,000 and/or imprisonment of up to two years.

Members of the public who have any information on the illegal sale of medicines may contact HSA at Tel: 6866-3485 during office hours (Monday to Friday) or email: hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg ↗ (opens in new tab).