Anticancer Potential of Ivermectin: Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Implications

Abstract

Ivermectin is a well-known antiparasitic drug in the macrolide class with a 16-membered ring. It has been used for treating various parasitic diseases, including onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, and strongyloidiasis. The present study aimed to review the mechanisms of action and therapeutic implications of Ivermectin as an anticancer agent. It has been used for over three decades, and its safety has been well-established in humans A growing body of evidence suggests that ivermectin has anticancer properties, making it an attractive candidate for treating various types of cancer. The reason is that ivermectin targets multiple signaling pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and STAT3 pathways, to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Inhibition of these pathways by ivermectin leads to suppression of cancer cell growth. Additionally, ivermectin has been shown to induce autophagy, which can lead to programmed cell death in cancer cells. One of the significant advantages of ivermectin as an anticancer drug is its safety profile. Furthermore, it is easily available and affordable, making it a promising alternative to conventional chemotherapy for various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and colon cancer. However, further research is needed to evaluate its clinical effectiveness in humans. Clinical trials are underway to investigate ivermectin's safety and efficacy in cancer treatment. In conclusion, the safety profile and low cost of ivermectin as an anticancer drug have turned it into a feasible alternative to conventional chemotherapy, which needs more investigation.