Ivermectin’s History, Uses, and New Over-the-Counter Access in Arkansas

Ivermectin has been described as a “wonder drug,” a title also given to aspirin and penicillin—medications that have had some of the greatest impacts on human health and well-being. Discovered in the late 1970s, ivermectin quickly became one of the most important medicines for treating parasitic infections in both humans and animals. Originally derived from bacteria found in soil, it was developed as an anti-parasitic drug and has been widely used to treat conditions like river blindness and lymphatic filariasis, improving the health of millions worldwide. Due to its effectiveness, the researchers behind its discovery were awarded the Nobel Prize in 2015.

While ivermectin is commonly used in veterinary medicine, it has also been a critical treatment for human parasitic diseases for decades. The drug works by disrupting the nervous systems of parasites, making it an effective tool against infections caused by worms, lice, and mites. It was first approved by the FDA for human use in 1987 to treat parasitic infections such as onchocerciasis (river blindness). Ivermectin has continually proven to be extremely safe, with minimal side effects, and is so well-tolerated that even individuals with basic training have successfully administered it in remote areas. However, its use became controversial when some promoted it as a treatment for COVID-19, despite limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for that purpose. This led to confusion about its proper use and safety.

For human use, ivermectin is typically dispensed in the following forms:

• Oral tablets – The most common form, used to treat parasitic infections such as river blindness, strongyloidiasis, and scabies.

• Topical creams/lotions – Used for treating conditions like rosacea and head lice.

Unlike veterinary formulations (such as pastes or injectables for livestock), human ivermectin products are specifically dosed and formulated for safety and effectiveness in people.

In Arkansas, a new law will soon allow ivermectin to be sold over the counter without a prescription, making it more accessible to those who wish to use it. While some praise this move for expanding personal choice, medical professionals caution that it should still be used responsibly and only for approved conditions. Unfortunately, despite its long history as a legitimate medication for humans, some media outlets continue to refer to it dismissively as “horse paste,” misrepresenting its true purpose and significance.

References

Crump, Andy, and Satoshi Ōmura. “Ivermectin, ‘wonder Drug’ from Japan: The Human Use Perspective.” Proceedings of the Japan Academy. Series B, Physical and Biological Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2011, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3043740/#:~:text=Discovered%20in%20the%20late%2D1970s,of%20people%20throughout%20the%20world.

“Ivermectin Mectizan.” American Chemical Society, www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/ivermectin-mectizan.html?utm_source. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

Stromectol® - Accessdata.Fda.Gov, www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/050742s022lbl.pdf. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.