From the Research
Ivermectin use is associated with significant cardiac risks, including QT interval prolongation, cardiac arrhythmia, and myocardial dysfunction, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking other QT-prolonging medications, and therefore should be used with great caution. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024 1, found that ivermectin pre-treatment demonstrates detrimental effects in cardiac ischemia through exacerbation of cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial dysfunction, and increased cardiac hypertrophy. This study suggests that the use of ivermectin in ischemic heart patients should be done with great caution.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the cardiac risks of ivermectin include:
- QT interval prolongation, which could potentially lead to abnormal heart rhythms, though this is rare at normal doses
- Cardiac arrhythmia and myocardial dysfunction, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions
- Increased cardiac hypertrophy, which can lead to further cardiac complications
- Potential interactions with other medications, particularly those that also prolong the QT interval
It is essential to note that the cardiac risks associated with ivermectin use are more significant than previously thought, and patients with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking other QT-prolonging medications should be closely monitored when using this medication. The study published in 2023 2 also found that ivermectin prolonged QT interval/QTcV in a dose-related manner, which supports the idea that ivermectin can have significant cardiac effects. However, the most recent study 1 provides the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on the cardiac risks of ivermectin use.
In terms of specific patient populations, the elderly and those with pre-existing heart conditions may be at higher risk for cardiac complications when using ivermectin, as reported in the study published in 2006 3. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks of ivermectin use in these patient populations.
Overall, the use of ivermectin should be approached with caution, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking other QT-prolonging medications, due to the significant cardiac risks associated with its use.