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Ivermectin, traditionally an antiparasitic medication, has garnered interest in oncology for its potential anticancer properties. Initially developed to treat parasitic infections such as river blindness and lymphatic filariasis, ivermectin’s unique mechanism of action and safety profile have prompted research into its broader therapeutic applications. (1)

Ivermectin’s anticancer effects are believed to stem from several mechanisms:

  1. Inhibition of Cell Proliferation: Ivermectin has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells by interfering with their proliferation. It modulates various signaling pathways, including blocking the Akt/mTOR pathway in breast cancer and inhibiting tumorigenic cell proliferation, which is crucial in cancer development. (1,2)
  2. Induction of Apoptosis: Ivermectin can induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells. This is achieved through the activation of caspases, which are enzymes that play a vital role in the apoptotic process. (1,2)
  3. Autophagy Induction: It also promotes autophagy, a cellular degradation process that can lead to cancer cell death. By inducing autophagy, ivermectin disrupts the survival mechanisms of cancer cells. (1,2)
  4. Inhibition of Angiogenesis: Ivermectin impedes the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) essential for tumor growth and metastasis. This is accomplished by inhibiting pathways involved in blood vessel formation. (1,2)

Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated ivermectin’s efficacy against various cancer types, including breast, colon, gastric, hepatocellular, renal, cervical, and ovarian cancers. These studies highlight its ability to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of conventional treatments.

Several clinical trials are underway to evaluate ivermectin’s safety and efficacy in cancer patients. Early-phase trials focus on determining optimal dosing regimens and identifying specific cancer types that may respond best to ivermectin therapy.

Repurposing ivermectin for cancer treatment presents a promising and cost-effective strategy, especially given its established safety profile in humans.

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References

  1. Tang M, Hu X, Wang Y, et al, Ivermectin, a potential anticancer drug derived from an antiparasitic drug. Pharmacol Res. 2021;163:105207, doi: 10.1016/j-phrs.2020.105207
  2. Kaur B, Blavo C, Parmar MS. Ivermectin: A Multifaceted Drug With a Potential Beyond Antiparasitic Therapy. Cureus. 2024;16(3):56025. Published 2024 Mar 12. doi: 10.7759/cureus.56025