Ivermectin and Type 1 Diabetes: Safety, Effects, and Considerations
A comprehensive review of ivermectin’s use, effects, and medical guidance for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Ivermectin and Type 1 Diabetes: Safety, Effects, and Current Guidance
Ivermectin, a medication widely used to treat parasitic infections, has drawn significant attention over recent years, especially as its use has been speculated (and often misapplied) during the COVID-19 pandemic. For individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), questions have arisen regarding ivermectin’s safety, potential effects on blood sugars, and whether its off-label use for viral illnesses is appropriate. This article provides a comprehensive overview of ivermectin, its recognized uses, effects on people with diabetes, and important considerations for T1D management.
What Is Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is a prescription-only oral medication designed to treat a range of parasitic infections in humans, including those caused by roundworms, threadworms, and other intestinal parasites. It is also used for tropical diseases like onchocerciasis (river blindness), helminthiasis, and scabies.
- Human use: Treats specific internal and external parasite infections
- Veterinary use: Approved for prevention of heartworm and treatment of other parasitic conditions in animals
The FDA has approved ivermectin for certain parasitic diseases, but it is not approved for treating viral infections (such as COVID-19) in humans.
Safety Profile and Historical Use
A 1997 safety analysis found that prescribed ivermectin did not increase risks of death in animals or humans when used as directed. However, any use outside prescribed guidance—especially consumption of animal formulations—poses significant risk of toxicity.
Ivermectin: What the Research Says About Its Effects on Diabetes
Ivermectin and Blood Sugar
Ivermectin itself does not have the same direct impact on blood sugar as diabetic medications like insulin (which lowers glucose) or steroids (which may raise glucose).
- A 2006 study in diabetic mice showed ivermectin reduced hyperglycemia (high blood sugars).
- A 2013 pre-clinical study also reported improved metabolic function in mice treated with ivermectin.
However, it is crucial to recognize that results found in mice may not translate to humans, and no robust data exists demonstrating similar benefits for people with diabetes.
Ivermectin and Parasitic Disease Treatment in Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been associated with reduced effectiveness of ivermectin in treating certain parasitic infections.
- A 2015 clinical study found T2D to be an independent risk factor for treatment failure when using ivermectin for Strongyloides stercoralis infection .
- Plausible reasons include altered drug absorption, slowed gastric emptying due to diabetes or its medications, and changes in gut microbiota associated with diabetes .
What others are reading
There is no comparable evidence specifically for type 1 diabetes (T1D), but similar precautions about medication effectiveness and interactions apply. Always disclose your diabetes diagnosis when prescribed such treatments.
Common Side Effects of Ivermectin
While generally well-tolerated when used as directed, ivermectin can cause a variety of side effects. Some of these:
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of energy
- Abdominal pain
Such side effects, while not exclusive to people with diabetes, may complicate diabetes management by affecting appetite, food intake, and regular use of insulin or oral medications. If you experience side effects that prevent you from following your diabetes care plan, seek medical advice promptly.
Ivermectin and COVID-19: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic heightened public interest in ivermectin, but major health authorities, including the FDA and National Institutes of Health (NIH), do not endorse the use of ivermectin for COVID-19. Reasons include:
- Laboratory studies showed ivermectin could inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication at extremely high doses—not safely achievable in humans .
- Clinical evidence to support ivermectin’s effectiveness against COVID-19 is lacking.
Taking ivermectin outside of medical supervision or using animal formulations is hazardous and strongly discouraged.
Is Ivermectin Safe for People with Type 1 Diabetes?
Ivermectin is not contraindicated for individuals with type 1 diabetes, provided it is prescribed for its approved uses (e.g., parasitic diseases).
- Always inform your healthcare provider about your diabetes diagnosis before receiving a prescription for ivermectin, to allow assessment of potential risks or medication interactions.
- Monitor your health closely when taking ivermectin, paying particular attention to how side effects might influence your blood sugar management and medication routine.
- Avoid self-prescribing or using ivermectin intended for veterinary use, as this is dangerous and medically unsound.
Special Considerations for Diabetes Medications
Some diabetes drugs (such as metformin) may alter the gastrointestinal environment, potentially influencing ivermectin absorption and effectiveness. While no well-established harmful drug interactions are known, diabetes may alter drug absorption and efficacy, especially in type 2 diabetes .
Expert Recommendations
- Ivermectin should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider for conditions where it is approved.
- Individuals with diabetes should always notify healthcare providers about their condition to ensure comprehensive care and to consider possible treatment adjustments.
- There is currently no support for using ivermectin to treat COVID-19 or any viral illness in people with diabetes.
Summary Table: Ivermectin and Diabetes
| Aspect | Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approval for Use | Approved for parasitic infections if needed | Approved for parasitic infections if needed |
| Impact on Blood Sugar | No major direct effect; animal studies show improved glucose in mice only | No major direct effect; reduced effectiveness treating parasites reported in some studies |
| Risks of Side Effects | Similar to general population; may complicate diabetes management | Similar, but possible reduced efficacy in parasite eradication |
| COVID-19 Treatment | Not approved or recommended | Not approved or recommended |
Best Practices for People with Type 1 Diabetes When Prescribed Ivermectin
- Take ivermectin strictly as prescribed and never use formulations intended for animals.
- Maintain open communication with your healthcare team, especially if you experience side effects or difficulty managing your diabetes as a result of treatment.
- Continue monitoring your blood sugar regularly while on any new medication.
- Never substitute ivermectin for approved viral treatments or vaccines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ivermectin and Type 1 Diabetes
Q: Can ivermectin cause low or high blood sugar?
A: Ivermectin does not typically alter blood sugar directly like insulin or steroids. However, side effects such as loss of appetite or nausea might make diabetes self-care more difficult.
Q: Is it safe to take ivermectin if I have both type 1 diabetes and another chronic illness?
A: Always review your full medication list and health history with your healthcare provider before starting ivermectin or any new medication, as interactions or complications might arise based on your individual case.
Q: Can I use ivermectin to treat COVID-19 or prevent infection?
A: No. Ivermectin is not authorized for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19, and using it for viral diseases outside a clinical trial setting or doctor’s direct recommendation is dangerous. COVID-19 prevention is best pursued through vaccination and established medical guidelines.
Q: Should I avoid ivermectin if I have diabetes?
A: Ivermectin can be used safely for its approved indications even in people with diabetes, but only under medical supervision. Disclose your diabetes status for individualized medical advice.
Q: What should I do if I experience side effects from ivermectin?
A: Contact your healthcare provider. Some side effects can interfere with food intake, hydration, or medication timing; your care team can provide recommendations to keep your diabetes well managed during treatment.
Takeaway
Ivermectin remains an effective and well-established treatment for certain parasitic infections, and is not contraindicated for people with type 1 diabetes when used as prescribed. However, using ivermectin for viral diseases like COVID-19 or without medical supervision is dangerous and strongly discouraged. Discuss any need for ivermectin with your healthcare provider and report any changes or side effects immediately to ensure optimal diabetes management and overall health.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/ivermectin-and-type-1-diabetes
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4546619/
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2801827
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/ivermectin-tablet
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ivermectin-oral-tablet
- https://www.nature.com/articles/ja201711
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8052602/
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/223832-ivermectin-a-multifaceted-drug-with-a-potential-beyond-anti-parasitic-therapy
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