Hoax – Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, has a ‘neuroprotective effect’ and can be an ally in the prevention of Alzheimer’s.
Analysis
Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia worldwide, being a complex neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of toxic proteins that lead to the progressive death of brain cells. Currently, medicine focuses on therapies that seek to slow the progression of symptoms and on preventive measures centered on a healthy lifestyle.
Amidst the search for treatments and prevention, a viral message has circulated widely, attempting to link ivermectin, a low-cost antiparasitic drug, to a supposed “neuroprotective effect” against Alzheimer’s. The text, which uses language that simulates scientific articles, cites technical terms such as “oxidative stress” and “ion channels” and claims that the drug could prevent the disease. Read:
Ivermectin and Alzheimer’s: the neuroprotective effect revealed by science In recent years, science has been rediscovering the therapeutic potential of already known substances, and one of the most surprising is ivermectin. Originally developed as an antiparasitic, it has demonstrated, in recent studies, neuroprotective effects that have aroused the interest of researchers worldwide. Research conducted by universities and neuroscience centers has been suggesting that ivermectin can reduce inflammatory processes in the brain, in addition to modulating communication between neurons. This is particularly relevant in the context of Alzheimer’s Disease, a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive death of brain cells and the accumulation of toxic plaques known as beta-amyloids.
In vitro and animal model studies suggest that ivermectin can prevent the formation of these plaques, as well as stimulate cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress, one of the factors that most accelerate brain aging. There are also indications that the compound acts on neuronal ion channels, helping to maintain the electrical and functional balance of the brain. Scientists highlight, however, that these results are still preliminary and require large-scale clinical trials before any therapeutic recommendation. Even so, the potential is promising: ivermectin, a simple and low-cost molecule, could become an unexpected ally in the protection and regeneration of brain cells, offering hope to millions of people affected by neurodegenerative diseases. What was once just a common antiparasitic now begins to reveal a new role: that of a protector of the human brain, a discovery that paves the way for future therapies and broadens the understanding of the relationship between immunity, inflammation, and neurological health.
Fact-Check
Despite the eloquence of the message, the claim that ivermectin works as a neuroprotector and can prevent or cure Alzheimer’s is, in fact, false. To demystify this information, which is based on preliminary and distorted results, we analyzed three key issues: 1) Does Ivermectin have a neuroprotective effect that prevents Alzheimer’s? 2) What can be done for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease? 3) Are there other fake news stories citing Ivermectin as a miracle cure or treatment?
Does Ivermectin have a neuroprotective effect that prevents Alzheimer’s?
There is no relevant scientific evidence in clinical studies with humans that supports the idea that ivermectin can prevent or cure Alzheimer’s. The Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines (PCDT) for Alzheimer’s from major international health bodies generally do not include ivermectin in any of their treatment or prevention recommendations, a clear sign of the absence of evidence of efficacy and safety for this purpose.
What can be done for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease?
The prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, according to leading health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and other official health organizations (reference – **_Note: I kept the link since the content points to the disease and can serve as a reference, but the description now refers to “other official health organizations” to generalize_**), is not linked to miracle drugs, but rather to adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing risk factors. The guidelines emphasize the need to maintain regular physical activity, have a balanced diet (such as the Mediterranean pattern), and promote constant brain stimulation through new learning and social interactions. Controlling chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are also crucial measures for the protection of neurological health.
Are there other fake news stories citing Ivermectin as a miracle cure or treatment?
Unfortunately, yes. Ivermectin has become the target of a series of hoaxes and false information, especially after being mistakenly promoted as a “treatment kit” during the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to the false claim of Alzheimer’s prevention, the drug has already been cited in other fake news stories claiming, without scientific backing, that it cures or effectively treats cancer, dengue, and that it would significantly reduce mortality from Covid-19, which was not confirmed by robust, large-scale clinical trials.
Conclusion
The claim that ivermectin has a “neuroprotective effect” capable of preventing Alzheimer’s is unfounded and lacks proof in clinical trials with humans. Alzheimer’s prevention remains anchored in a healthy lifestyle and the control of risk factors, as guided by major health organizations and the WHO.
Fake news ❌
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