The demand for ivermectin hit the roof in the last few weeks following report of new studies indicating it could be effective in treating COVID-19.
Health experts have warned Nigerians to be careful about the indiscriminate use of the drug.
Owners of pharmaceutical retail outlets in Nigeria say the cost of ivermectin has soared in the last two months, following an unusual rise in demand for the drug.
They said that the high demand for the drug may have been spurred by studies and reports claiming that it was effective in the treatment of COVID-19.
Ivermectin is a medication used to treat many types of parasitic infestations. It has also been used widely in sub-Saharan Africa since the 1990s to treat river blindness.
According to recent findings, however, the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a surge in demand for the drug globally. Health experts are, however, urging caution against the misuse of the medication, noting that its abuse can have a serious health effect.
Below are some adverse Side effects of Ivermectin 👇
dizziness,
headache,
somnolence,
vertigo,
tremor, encephalopathy
neurological challenges
Seizures have also been reported during the post-marketing experience,” he said.
Encephalopathy is a disease that affects the brain. It happens when there’s been a change in the way the brain works or when a change in the body that affects the brain.
Dr Kingsley Amibor – Consultant hospital pharmacist has called for proper health education on social media platforms, radio and television, as well as print media, noting that many people make decisions about their health based on information they get from social and regular media platforms.
The populace must be clearly informed and warned against indiscriminate use of ivermectin in suspected cases of COVID-19.