Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 16, 2025

Experimental Infection of Mice with the Parasitic Nematode Strongyloides ratti ratti Infection
Published on: January 17, 2025
Ivermectin treatment for Strongyloides infection in patients with COVID-19
Abstract:
Ivermectin, an antiparasitic agent, is not recommended for prophylaxis or treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Inappropriate use of ivermectin for treatment of COVID-19 may make it less available for patients with serious parasitic infections who could benefit from its use and worsen the current shortage of ivermectin in Canada. However, patients with COVID-19 who are candidates to receive immunomodulatory therapies (e.g. corticosteroids and interleukin-6 inhibitors) may be at risk of hyperinfection syndrome and disseminated disease from Strongyloides stercoralis. These complications can be severe and even fatal. It is important to recognize and screen patients who may be at risk of strongyloidiasis, as these patients may require treatment with ivermectin to avoid the potential for a hyperinfection syndrome and disseminated disease, which is frequently deadly. Clinicians should follow evidence-based recommendations to screen and treat for Strongyloides infection in patients with COVID-19 who are under consideration to receive specific COVID-19 therapies that alter immune response and may lead to hyperinfection syndrome or disseminated disease.
Insights
Ivermectin is not recommended for COVID-19 treatment. However, some COVID-19 patients on immunomodulatory therapies may need ivermectin to prevent severe Strongyloides infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug.
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health concern.
- The use of ivermectin for COVID-19 is controversial and not recommended by health authorities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the role of ivermectin in the context of COVID-19.
- To highlight the risks associated with ivermectin use in COVID-19 patients.
- To emphasize the importance of screening for Strongyloides stercoralis in certain COVID-19 patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current medical literature and guidelines.
- Analysis of potential drug interactions and side effects.
- Identification of patient populations at risk for specific complications.
Main Results:
- Ivermectin is not recommended for prophylaxis or treatment of COVID-19.
- Inappropriate ivermectin use can lead to drug shortages for parasitic infections.
- COVID-19 patients receiving immunomodulatory therapies are at risk for Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians should not use ivermectin for COVID-19.
- Screening for Strongyloides stercoralis is crucial in COVID-19 patients considered for immunomodulatory therapies.
- Early detection and treatment of Strongyloides prevent potentially fatal hyperinfection syndrome.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drugs for Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in IBD
Treating Helicobacter pylori in Peptic Ulcers: Antimicrobial Therapy
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Glucocorticoids
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:

