COVID-19: Ivermectin; Molecular Mechanisms, Limitations, Suggestions

Abstract

To date, no effective treatment has been found against coronaviruses (CoVs), which have re-emerged with severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and have a high potential for disease in humans as well as domestic and wild animal species. The investigation of treatment options to combat this virus, which has a pandemic character with its high morbidity and mortality rate, is a multidisciplinary research subject. In this context, the drug repositioning has come to the agenda in the fight against SARS-CoV- 2, which is the current subject. However, despite the superior characteristics of drug options other than rational usage purposes such as easy accessibility and rapid transfer to the field, the lack of evaluations for their efficacy and safety may lead to misleading. In this review, the applicability, risks, and possible molecular mechanisms of ivermectin, which is suggested to be an effective treatment option, are discussed within the framework of the pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic properties of the drug.

Keywords

• antiviral efficacy
• covid-19
• drug repurposing
• ivermectin
• sars-cov-2