Seguridad y eficacia de ivermectina en pacientes con Covid-19

Abstract

After the first manifestation of the COVID-19 virus in the world, it was reported that this new viral disease developed severe and progressive respiratory symptoms, leading to the patient's death. Ivermectin is a semi-synthetic drug produced by the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis. It was mainly used as an antiparasitic against onchocerciasis and strongyloidiasis; however, after the pandemic event, it began to be implemented as a possible treatment against COVID-19. Objective: This investigation aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ivermectin in patients with COVID-19. Materials and methods: This research was based on a bibliographic review of published articles in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Redalyc, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Springer, websites, and the virtual library of the Catholic University of Cuenca. It is important to mention that a total of 46 scientific articles were included with the previously established inclusion criteria. Conclusions: It was determined that the drug could inhibit the viral protein and the importin α/β1 heterodimer, which leads to the inhibition of viral replication in the organism preventing disease progression. Today we know the results of many in vitro studies proving its efficacy in the early stages of infection without causing adverse effects and complications during its use. However, clinical analyses report that further studies are needed to determine its effectiveness as an antiviral treatment.