Is Ivermectin Effective for Treating Psoriasis?
My younger brother, who is 12 years old, suffers from psoriasis. He has developed white patches resembling scabs on various parts of his body, including his knees, elbows, and a small area on his scalp, and he previously had this condition on his eyelids. Given that my dad has a tendency to believe in conspiracy theories—like chemtrails and 5G radiation—I tend to question his medical recommendations. Recently, he purchased ivermectin pills from an online pharmacy after getting them prescribed for my brother, insisting that they could help alleviate the psoriasis. The packaging clearly states "Ivermectin Tablets USP 3 mg" from Edenbridge Pharmaceuticals. I am concerned about the safety of these pills for my sibling. I have no idea how my father came across this information, but I suspect it may have been through social media. My brother's doctor typically recommends ointments and creams for his psoriasis, which makes my father’s choice of medication puzzling. I even suggested to my brother that he pretend to take the pills by throwing one away, but I'm worried my dad will be monitoring him. I am at a loss about what action to take next.
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 4:52:01 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand your concern about your brother's health and the potential use of ivermectin, especially given his psoriasis. It’s important to clarify that while ivermectin is an effective medication for certain parasitic infections, it is not approved for the treatment of psoriasis. Your brother’s existing treatment plan with ointments and creams prescribed by his doctor is more appropriate for managing his condition.
Explanation:
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can cause scaly, itchy patches on the skin, and it typically requires treatments specifically designed for it, such as topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or other targeted therapies. Ivermectin is primarily used to treat parasitic infections like river blindness or strongyloidiasis, and there is no solid evidence from clinical studies supporting its use in treating psoriasis.
Next Steps:
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Do Not Use Ivermectin: Advise your brother against taking the ivermectin pills. The safety and efficacy of these tablets for psoriasis are not established, and there could be potential risks involved.
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Communicate Concerns: Try to have an open and honest conversation with your father about your concerns regarding the ivermectin. Emphasize that the doctor has a treatment plan that is specifically suited for psoriasis.
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Support Medical Management: Encourage your brother to continue using the topical treatments recommended by his doctor. These are tailored to address his psoriasis effectively.
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Consult the Doctor: If possible, consider discussing the situation with your brother’s doctor. You can express your concerns about the ivermectin and seek advice on how to proceed. They may provide additional support or reassurance to your father regarding the treatment options.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your brother’s psoriasis and any new developments, and make sure he continues to follow the treatment prescribed by his healthcare provider.
Your brother's health and well-being come first, and it's vital to ensure he receives the right care. You're doing the right thing by gathering information and considering his safety. If you have more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.
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