OpenHealth Q&A

Concerns Regarding Unauthorized Ivermectin Use for My Grandpa in ICU

My grandfather, who is approximately 80 years old, is currently in the ICU, and I have limited details about his condition. Regrettably, I don't know his exact height or weight; however, he has experienced significant weight loss recently. He is battling lymphoma and was admitted after a swift decline in his health, which included fluid accumulation in his lungs and an inability to communicate or breathe effectively. Initially, there were concerns that his cancer had progressed, but it was later determined that a heart medication he was taking was the cause of these adverse effects. Although he is starting to recover after ceasing that medication, he remains quite weak, and speaking is challenging for him. My primary worry is that my grandmother is providing him with ivermectin, specifically a version intended for pets, mixed into the smoothies they bring him. Prior to my visit, they hinted at not discussing this while in the hospital, suggesting that the medical staff would be upset if they found out and might prevent them from administering it. My grandpa had willingly taken this medication when he was more alert, so my concern isn’t about his consent; it’s more about potential interactions with any medications the hospital might be administering. I am unaware of his current prescriptions, and I feel helpless to gather that information without drawing attention to the ivermectin. My family truly believes that this treatment is alleviating his cancer symptoms, pointing to the reduced swelling in his neck lymph nodes as evidence. I feel powerless to intervene, as they are entrenched in their belief in ivermectin as a miracle cure, which reflects their broader acceptance of various pandemic-related misinformation. I have several pressing questions: 1. Could there be any harmful interactions between ivermectin and the medications my grandfather is receiving in the hospital? How serious might these interactions be? 2. I do not live nearby and am unable to visit frequently; is there a way to raise this concern anonymously so my grandmother does not find out I reported it? Given her primary role in his care, is there a responsibility to communicate this to her, or could I rely on the hospital to manage this without implicating me? I fear that revealing my involvement would lead to significant conflict within my family, particularly as they believe so strongly that this treatment is saving his life. If they discovered my role in placing that concern, I doubt they would ever forgive me, even if my intentions were solely to protect him. 3. Although this may not be critical, how can the hospital approach the issue of stopping this unauthorized treatment without disclosing that someone alerted them? The only solution I can think of is prohibiting them from bringing outside food without justification, but I doubt they would pursue that course of action. If this were a serious matter, I would expect the hospital to confront my family directly. My main concern is avoiding any strategy that would result in them limiting family visits, as my grandfather is feeling incredibly isolated and relies on their companionship. I apologize for the lack of specifics regarding his health and medications. I share your frustration with the limited information at my disposal and appreciate your understanding.

Answers (1)

9/4/2025, 7:30:57 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're in a very challenging situation with concerns for your grandfather's health and family dynamics. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Potential Interactions with Ivermectin: Ivermectin is not approved for the treatment of cancer and can interact with various medications. The seriousness of any interaction depends on the specific drugs your grandfather is receiving in the ICU. For example, ivermectin can affect the metabolism of certain heart medications, potentially leading to increased levels of those drugs, which can be harmful. Since he is recovering from adverse effects related to a heart medication, introducing ivermectin could jeopardize his recovery.

2. Addressing Your Concerns: You can communicate your concerns anonymously to the hospital staff. Many hospitals have patient advocacy services or hotlines where you can raise issues without revealing your identity. You can explain your worries about the unauthorized use of ivermectin and ask them to investigate this situation discreetly. It's important to convey that your intention is solely to protect your grandfather’s well-being.

3. Stopping Unauthorized Treatment: Hospitals typically have protocols for managing unauthorized treatments. If they determine that ivermectin poses a risk to your grandfather, they will likely approach this as a safety issue without directly implicating you. They can implement policies regarding outside medications and food based on safety guidelines. They could remind family members about hospital protocols around medication management, framing it in a way that emphasizes patient safety for all in their care, without attributing it to any one person's concerns.

Next Steps:

• Contact the Hospital Anonymously: Use patient advocacy or a hotline to express your concerns about ivermectin and its potential interactions without revealing your identity.
• Gather Information: If possible, try to get more information on his current medications through the hospital staff or by asking your family indirectly about his care plan. This information could provide clarity on any immediate risks if ivermectin continues to be administered.
• Support Your Grandfather in Other Ways: Meanwhile, continue to support your grandfather through emotional means. Regular calls or messages can help alleviate feelings of isolation despite the circumstances.

It's understandable that you are in a complex emotional situation; balancing the care for your grandfather while managing family dynamics is no easy task. Prioritizing his health and well-being while seeking to navigate these relationships sensitively is commendable.