Cancer Patients Turning to Ivermectin Instead of Chemotherapy, Raising Concerns Among Doctors

A growing number of cancer patients are turning to ivermectin in hopes of treating their disease, prompting concern from medical professionals who warn the drug has not been proven to cure cancer.

According to a recent study analyzing electronic medical records from 68 million patients, ivermectin prescriptions among cancer patients more than doubled between January and July 2025. Researchers found the highest levels of interest among white males living in the Southern United States.

The surge appears to be linked, in part, to viral claims made during a widely viewed podcast interview earlier this year. Since then, several public figures have publicly discussed using ivermectin as part of their cancer treatment plans, helping fuel growing interest in the drug.

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While some patients are using ivermectin alongside conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, doctors say others are choosing it in place of established cancer therapies.

Medical experts caution that ivermectin is not approved to treat cancer and has not been proven effective through large-scale human clinical trials. Researchers have studied the drug’s potential effects on cancer cells, but no conclusive evidence currently shows it can cure or successfully treat cancer in people.

Doctors also warn that high doses of ivermectin can be dangerous, potentially causing serious side effects including seizures, coma, and even death. Some physicians say the drug may also worsen nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Oncologists report that more patients are asking questions about ivermectin during appointments, creating opportunities for discussions about the difference between anecdotal success stories and treatments backed by scientific evidence.

Despite the lack of official approval for cancer treatment, ivermectin remains widely available in some states, including several where it can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

Health experts continue to encourage cancer patients to consult with their physicians before making changes to their treatment plans.

Also reported by: The Hill.