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Q. The internet is full of references to ivermectin being used to fight or avert cancer. Is there any empirical evidence, or is it all hype and anecdotal?
I am a 20-year survivor of breast cancer. Four years ago, I had ovarian cancer treated with chemotherapy. Now my CA125 is rising, so any prophylactic measures would be welcome. Of course, that could be the reason for the hype appearing online, as many are in my position.
A. We spoke recently with experts in breast and prostate oncology. They both confirmed that patients frequently ask questions about ivermectin for their cancers. This drug is an antiparasitic compound used to treat roundworm or river blindness in humans. It is also the active ingredient in Soolantra, a cream prescribed for rosacea, and Sklice, a lice-killing lotion.
A search of the medical literature shows some very intriguing preclinical research, but it is limited to cell cultures and animal models. As far as we can tell, there are not yet large, well-controlled clinical trials supporting the use of ivermectin to treat cancer. That confirms what the oncology experts told us.
You can learn more about this topic at MedShadow.org in an article titled: "Ivermectin Isn't a Proven Cure. So Why Do So Many People Believe It Is?"
Q. I'm diabetic and on the Ozempic shot. This allowed me to stop one of my metformin pills, which decreased my stomach pain significantly.
Based on my A1C, my diabetes is better controlled now than it was before. I've also lost about 40 pounds. My doctor hopes that the shot will also benefit my heart, as I have a family history of heart disease.
I don't like needles, but once a week isn't bad. It's much better than adding another pill to my multi-drug regimen, especially a pill like Wegovy with such restrictive orders for taking it.
A. Congratulations on making such excellent progress. The Wegovy (semaglutide) pill is attractive to people who hate shots, but it does need to be taken daily with 4 ounces of water on an empty stomach 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else. That can be challenging for many people. Ozempic is the same medicine in a weekly injection.
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features, 300 W. 57th St., 41st Floor, New York, NY 10019, or email them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is "Top Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them."