What are the roles of the antiparasitic drugs Ivermectin and Niclosamide in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?
Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug used for the treatment of parasitic roundworm infections. Several studies have been conducted to conclude the role of Ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19. In vitro research reveals the potential of Ivermectin as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2. The study reveals 5000 fold reduction in viral activity within 48 hours. The mechanism of action of Ivermectin against COVD-19 includes inhibition of importin alpha/beta-1 nuclear transport proteins in host. Virus suppress the immune system of host and invade the intracellular transport process. However, Food and Drug Administration Authority (FDA) and Treatment Guidelines Panel do not recommend the use of Ivermectin against COVID-19 patients. Clinical trials are currently being conducted for confirmation.