From the Research
Ivermectin is not currently approved or recommended for breast cancer treatment, and patients should follow established treatment plans prescribed by oncologists to ensure the best outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. While some laboratory studies have shown that ivermectin may have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting certain cellular pathways, there is insufficient clinical evidence to support its use in breast cancer patients 1, 2, 3. Standard breast cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the specific type and stage of breast cancer. These established treatments have been proven effective through extensive clinical trials 4, 5.
Some studies suggest that ivermectin may have synergistic effects with other cancer treatments, such as modulated electro-hyperthermia 2 or immune checkpoint blockade 1. However, these findings are based on preclinical studies and require further investigation to determine their clinical relevance.
It is essential to note that self-medicating with ivermectin for cancer treatment could delay proper medical care and potentially cause harm. The anti-parasitic properties that make ivermectin effective for its approved uses (treating certain parasitic infections) work through different mechanisms than what would be required for cancer treatment. Any potential cancer applications would require different dosing, formulations, and delivery methods than the currently available ivermectin products.
In the context of real-life clinical medicine, the most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2024 2, which suggests that ivermectin may have anticancer effects in combination with other treatments. However, this study was conducted in a mouse model, and further research is needed to confirm these findings in humans. Therefore, the current recommendation is to prioritize established breast cancer treatments and avoid using ivermectin as a substitute for proven therapies.