Dangers of Self-Medicating with Ivermectin for the Elderly Following Mel Gibson's Statements

Oncology specialists are raising the alarm after actor Mel Gibson's comments on a popular podcast sparked a wave of self-medication with ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug. The actor claimed that three of his friends with stage IV cancer had been cured using this medication.

Oncologists stress that there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of ivermectin in cancer treatment, and that self-medication can have serious consequences — particularly for elderly people, who are more vulnerable.

Older adults are especially exposed to the risks of self-medication due to age-related physiological changes and interactions with other medications they regularly take for chronic conditions.

Ivermectin is approved for the treatment of certain parasitic infections, but its use outside approved medical indications can cause severe adverse effects, including neurological, digestive, and liver problems.

Specialists advise older adults against resorting to scientifically unapproved treatments and urge them to always consult their oncologist for validated therapeutic options.