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You can’t safely purchase ivermectin tablets from authorised UK retailers since it’s not approved for human use.
The MHRA, WHO, and EMA advise against using Ivermectin to treat COVID-19 outside of clinical trials due to a lack of sufficient evidence.
Soolantra 10mg/g cream is the only licensed ivermectin product in the UK, but it’s not indicated for scabies or in tablet form.
Consult your doctor about treatment options and consider joining an authorised trial if you’re interested in Ivermectin.
There are important details to understand about Ivermectin’s regulatory status and potential risks.
Key Takeaways
- Ivermectin is not authorised for COVID-19 treatment in the UK, with Soolantra cream being the only approved ivermectin product.
- The MHRA is responsible for licensing medicines based on safety, quality, and efficacy to protect public health.
- Off-label use of Ivermectin carries potential risks, and consultation with healthcare professionals is necessary before considering unlicensed treatments.
- Authorised retailers provide a safe purchasing option for Ivermectin, but a prescription may be required for legal purchase.
- Awareness of potential counterfeit products is crucial when purchasing Ivermectin.
The key points from the facts state that Ivermectin isn’t authorised for COVID-19 prevention or treatment in the UK.
Stromectol 3mg tablets containing Ivermectin are approved in France but not licensed in the UK.
The MHRA, responsible for licensing medicines in the UK, hasn’t received any application for ivermectin tablets for use in the country.
Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle submitted an inquiry regarding the licensing of Ivermectin for older children and adults.
While clinicians may prescribe unlicensed medicines, such as Ivermectin, under specific conditions, it is vital to consider the ethical implications.
Informed consent and clinical judgement are essential when prescribing unlicensed medicines.
The World Health Organisation advises against using Ivermectin outside of clinical trials, and the Scottish Government follows these guidelines.
It is important to note that using veterinary Ivermectin for COVID-19 can cause serious health problems.
Prescription drugs should be used under the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional to avoid harmful side effects or drug interactions.
Patients should discuss their needs with their doctor, including the possibility of entering clinical trials involving Ivermectin.
As the licensing of medicines is reserved for the UK Government and the MHRA makes decisions based on safety, quality, and efficacy criteria, it would be irresponsible to suggest authorised retailers for a drug not approved for COVID-19 treatment in the UK.
The results of ongoing clinical trials involving Ivermectin are awaited, and until then, caution and adherence to official guidelines are paramount.
Only one ivermectin-containing product, Soolantra 10 mg/g cream, is approved in the UK. This is not indicated for treating scabies in tablet form.
You may be surprised to learn that Soolantra 10 mg/g cream is the only ivermectin product licensed in the UK, and it is solely approved for treating rosacea, not scabies.
If you are considering using Soolantra off-label for scabies treatment, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider first.
A recent study highlighted topical Ivermectin as an exciting option for scabies management, boasting a 100% success rate in a small sample of patients.
They can advise you on the appropriate dosage, application, and precautions based on your individual case and medical history.
Soolantra’s UK Approval
While several ivermectin products are available globally, the UK has only approved one ivermectin-containing medication: Soolantra 10 mg/g cream.
It is specifically licensed for the topical treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea (papulopustular) in adults.
Soolantra is not indicated for treating scabies and is a prescription cream, not an oral tablet.
The marketing authorisation holder is Galderma (UK) Limited.
The cream’s efficacy was demonstrated in Phase III studies involving over 2,300 subjects.
It proved superior to vehicle cream within 4 weeks and was more effective than Metronidazole 7.5 mg/g cream, applied twice daily, in reducing inflammatory lesion counts.
After 16 weeks, there was an 83% reduction from baseline.
Regarding Soolantra’s safety, no overdose reports exist.
Healthcare professionals should report suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme.
The cream contains cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, and propylene glycol.
Continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance is essential.
Off-Label Prescribing Considerations
Soolantra’s UK approval for treating rosacea is promising; however, it is essential to note that the medication is not licensed for other conditions, such as scabies, particularly in oral tablet form.
When considering off-label use, you should be aware of the following:
1. Ethical considerations: Prescribing Ivermectin for unlicensed indications falls under the clinician’s responsibility if they judge it to be the best option for the patient.
2. Risks: Off-label use carries potential risks, including adverse reactions, inconsistent product quality, and labelling issues. Pregnancy safety is also unknown, as animal studies show potential risks.
3. Clinical trials: Several studies are investigating Ivermectin’s efficacy against COVID-19, but the WHO currently advises its use only within clinical trials.
4. Regulatory oversight: In the UK, the MHRA is responsible for drug licensing, while bodies like NICE guide appropriate use.
While some countries have implemented Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19 with positive outcomes, further research is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness.
It is essential to consult with your doctor and consider participating in clinical trials if they are suitable for you.
The decision to prescribe Ivermectin off-label is a clinical one, requiring careful judgment and adherence to local governance processes.
For Ivermectin to be granted marketing authorisation, an application must be submitted to the MHRA for review. This implies that Ivermectin in tablet form is not currently authorised.
Ivermectin in tablet form isn’t currently authorised for marketing in the UK, as no application has been submitted to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for review.
For Ivermectin to be granted a marketing authorisation, the manufacturer must submit an application to the MHRA, which will then assess the product’s safety, quality, and efficacy.
The MHRA has processes in place to expedite such an application if received, but as of now, no company has applied for a licence to use Ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19 in the UK.
It’s essential to note that while Ivermectin is licensed for use as a topical cream in the treatment of rosacea, it isn’t approved for the treatment of COVID-19 symptoms.
Clinicians may prescribe unlicensed medicines, such as ivermectin tablets, under their own responsibility, taking into account the safe use of drugs and local governance processes.
However, this should only be done if there’s no suitable licensed alternative available that can meet the individual patient’s needs.
The MHRA continues to review the emerging body of evidence regarding potential medicines for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19, including updates from ongoing clinical trials involving Ivermectin in the UK.
The clinical trial data would need to demonstrate a favourable risk-benefit profile for the quality, safety, and efficacy of Ivermectin for it to be approved.
Until then, it’s vital to stay informed about the latest ivermectin regulations and clinical trial updates to guarantee the safe and appropriate use of this medication.
The WHO advises that Ivermectin should only be used for the treatment of COVID-19 within clinical trials.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that Ivermectin should only be used to treat COVID-19 within the context of clinical trials, due to the current lack of detailed data supporting its safety and efficacy for this purpose.
Ivermectin’s established efficacy is against parasitic diseases, not viral infections like COVID-19.
The WHO’s stance is based on a review of pooled data from 16 randomised controlled trials by a guideline development group, which found the evidence on Ivermectin’s effectiveness to be of “very low certainty” due to limitations in the trial data.
This recommendation applies to patients with COVID-19 of any disease severity and is part of the World Health Organisation’s guidelines on COVID-19 treatments.
Here are four key points to evaluate regarding the WHO’s recommendation on Ivermectin for COVID-19:
1. Clinical trial outcomes: Studies, such as ACTIV-6, have found that Ivermectin doesn’t significantly improve COVID-19 outcomes. A randomised clinical trial comparing Ivermectin with placebo in treating early mild to moderate COVID-19 enrolled 1,591 participants and found no notable difference in symptom duration between the two groups.
2. Need for larger trials: Larger trials are necessary to confirm preliminary findings from smaller studies suggesting potential efficacy. While some studies have observed early viral clearance in ivermectin-treated patients, these findings aren’t consistent across all trials.
3. Ivermectin safety: The WHO’s recommendation is based on the current lack of strong data supporting Ivermectin’s safety for COVID-19 treatment. Although no severe adverse events were observed in some ivermectin trials, safety concerns persist due to the limited availability of extensive data.
4. Regulatory stance: The FDA, EMA, and other regulatory agencies also advise against using Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment outside of clinical trials. Ivermectin is approved for treating parasitic diseases, but not for COVID-19 in the UK and other countries.
The EMA advises against using Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside of randomised clinical trials.
Based on its review of available evidence, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) advises against using Ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 outside of well-designed, randomised clinical trials.
The EMA’s conclusion is based on an evaluation of laboratory studies that found Ivermectin could inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, but only at concentrations significantly higher than the approved doses.
Most reviewed studies were small and had limitations, including variations in dosing regimens and the use of concomitant medications.
Clinical trial results have been mixed, with some showing no benefit and others reporting potential benefits.
Key trials, such as Krolewiecki’s pilot trial and López-Medina’s study, yielded inconclusive results regarding its effectiveness. However, the EMA states that currently available evidence is insufficient to support the use of Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside clinical trials.
They emphasise the need for further well-designed studies to determine ivermectin efficacy and safety in the context of COVID-19.
The EMA also raises concerns about toxicity, as the higher doses needed to achieve effective lung concentrations could increase side effects.
They note that Ivermectin isn’t authorised for COVID-19 use in the EU, and no application has been received for such use.
The agency’s stance aligns with other health organisations, such as the WHO, which also recommend against using Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside clinical trials.
The EMA’s public health statement has been endorsed by the COVID-19 EMA pandemic Task Force (COVID-ETF), underscoring the importance of proper clinical trial design in evaluating ivermectin efficacy and safety for COVID-19 treatment.
There are ethical concerns associated with the use of unlicensed medicines, particularly when there is insufficient clinical evidence.
Prescribing Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment raises significant ethical concerns, as it is an unlicensed use without sufficient clinical evidence to support its efficacy and safety.
The ethical implications of using Ivermectin in this situation cannot be overlooked.
Here are four key points to reflect on:
- Major health bodies, such as the EMA, advise against using Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside of randomised clinical trials due to the lack of robust evidence.
- Prescribing unproven treatments compromises the ethical principles of non-maleficence (avoiding harm) and beneficence (doing good), potentially exposing patients to risks without clear benefits.
- Clinical integrity is at stake when healthcare professionals prescribe medicines without adhering to ethical standards that require treatments to be based on scientifically validated evidence.
- Legal liabilities further compound the ethical concerns, as prescribing unlicensed medicines, such as Ivermectin, exposes healthcare professionals to censure and consequences.
The absence of apparent clinical benefits from Ivermectin in treating COVID-19 raises serious ethical questions about its use.
It is vital for healthcare professionals to carefully weigh the ethical and legal considerations before prescribing off-label medications like Ivermectin.
The risks associated with using unlicensed medicines without sufficient clinical evidence cannot be understated.
Protecting patient safety and upholding clinical integrity should be the top priorities when making treatment decisions.
Until robust data from clinical trials support the use of Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19, it is ethically and legally prudent to refrain from prescribing it for this purpose.
Given that Ivermectin is not authorised in the UK except in a limited form for the treatment of rosacea, and significant health bodies advise against its use for COVID-19 outside of trials, I do not feel it would be responsible to suggest retailers for purchasing it. I recommend consulting with a doctor and considering participation in authorised clinical trials if you are interested in this treatment.
While Ivermectin isn’t authorised in the UK for COVID-19 treatment, it’s understandable that you’re curious about where to obtain it.
However, given the current ivermectin regulations, I don’t feel it would be responsible to suggest retailers for purchasing it.
The drug is only approved in a limited form for treating rosacea in the UK, and significant health bodies, such as the MHRA, EMA, and WHO, advise against its use for COVID-19 outside of clinical trials.
Patient safety is paramount, especially with unproven treatments.
There’s insufficient clinical evidence to support the use of Ivermectin for COVID-19 without regulatory approval.
The PRINCIPLE trial even found that Ivermectin is unlikely to provide meaningful improvement in recovery, hospital admissions, or long-term outcomes for the disease.
If you’re interested in this treatment, I recommend consulting with your doctor or GP.
They can provide personalised advice based on your health status and the latest evidence.
Participation in authorised clinical trials is also an option to consider.
These trials aim to characterise Ivermectin’s safety, tolerability, and efficacy for COVID-19 in a controlled setting.
Ultimately, treatment decisions should be based on robust clinical evidence and professional guidance.
While I apologise for not being able to provide the requested list of retailers, I hope this explanation helps you understand the importance of following regulatory guidance and seeking expert advice.
Your health and safety are the top priorities, so it’s essential to approach unlicensed medicines with caution and rely on the expertise of healthcare professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ivermectin Approved for Treating COVID-19 in the UK?
Ivermectin isn’t approved for treating COVID-19 in the UK.
The EMA and WHO advise against using it outside clinical trials, as current evidence is inconclusive and methodologically limited.
They recommend further well-designed studies to assess its effectiveness and safety.
Higher doses may be required for antiviral effects, potentially increasing toxicity risks.
Reports exist of unsafe use and adverse effects from people taking veterinary formulations, which aren’t safe for human use.
Can I buy Ivermectin tablets over the counter in the UK?
Ivermectin isn’t a magic cure-all that you can pluck off the pharmacy shelf.
Ivermectin tablets cannot be purchased over the counter in the UK.
It’s a prescription-only medicine, unavailable for purchase without a clinician’s authorisation.
Ivermectin isn’t approved to treat COVID-19 in the UK, although it has other approved uses.
Taking Ivermectin for unapproved purposes can be dangerous, especially at high doses, which may cause serious side effects.
Are there any ongoing UK clinical trials of Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19?
Yes, there’s ongoing research into Ivermectin’s clinical efficacy for COVID-19 in the UK.
You can join the PRINCIPLE trial, which is investigating Ivermectin and favipiravir as potential treatments for COVID-19.
It’s the world’s largest trial of home-based COVID-19 treatments, aiming to speed recovery and prevent hospitalisation.
The trial has already reported effective treatments, such as inhaled budesonide.
You can easily participate online, by phone, or through your GP, without the need for in-person visits.
Can UK doctors prescribe Ivermectin for off-label use?
Did you know that UK doctors can prescribe Ivermectin off-label?
While it is not approved for COVID-19, they may do so under their own responsibility after a thorough consultation with the patient.
However, off-label prescribing carries risks such as adverse reactions and inconsistent product information.
Most importantly, current evidence is insufficient to support the use of Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside of clinical trials.
Further well-designed studies are needed to assess its safety and efficacy.
What Are the Risks of Using Ivermectin Without Sufficient Clinical Evidence?
Using Ivermectin without sufficient evidence risks serious side effects, as the proper dosage for treating COVID-19 hasn’t been established.
You could experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, low blood pressure, confusion, hallucinations, or even seizures and coma.
Overdosing on Ivermectin can cause liver injury and death.
Severe skin rashes and nervous system effects, such as tremors, may also occur.
Consult a healthcare provider before considering the use of off-label Ivermectin to assess the risks.
Conclusion
You shouldn’t waste your time searching for ivermectin retailers in the UK.
It’s not authorised for use against COVID-19 or other conditions, except in a specific cream for rosacea.
Leading health organisations advise against using it outside of approved clinical trials.
The consequences of taking unapproved medicines could be disastrous.
If you’re interested in this treatment, the best course of action is to discuss participation in a legitimate research study with your doctor.
