Claim Review: U.S. Military Knew Ivermectin Was Best for Pandemics Since 2016

Introduction

The claim that the U.S. military, specifically through DARPA, knew since 2016 that Ivermectin was the best product to use in the event of a pandemic has been circulating in various forms. This article aims to review this claim and provide a thorough analysis based on available scientific evidence and reliable sources.

Background

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication that has been used for decades to treat various parasitic infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been significant interest in its potential as a treatment for COVID-19. However, the scientific community has been divided on its efficacy and safety for this purpose.

Analysis of the Claim

The claim suggests that DARPA, the research arm of the U.S. military, had identified Ivermectin as the best product for a pandemic as early as 2016. This claim is attributed to Dr. Christopher Shoemaker, an emergency and general hospital medicine doctor in Canada.

To evaluate this claim, it is essential to examine the available scientific literature and statements from reputable organizations.

Scientific Evidence

A study published in the journal Antiviral Research in April 2020 suggested that Ivermectin could inhibit the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. However, subsequent studies and meta-analyses have yielded mixed results. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews concluded that the evidence for Ivermectin's efficacy in treating COVID-19 is uncertain.

Statements from Reputable Organizations

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have both issued statements cautioning against the use of Ivermectin for COVID-19 outside of clinical trials. The FDA has explicitly warned against using Ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19, citing a lack of sufficient evidence and potential safety concerns.

Conclusion

The claim that the U.S. military knew Ivermectin was the best product for a pandemic since 2016 is largely unsubstantiated. While there is some preliminary evidence suggesting Ivermectin's potential antiviral properties, the scientific consensus remains uncertain. Reputable organizations such as the WHO and FDA have cautioned against its use for COVID-19 due to insufficient evidence and potential safety concerns. Therefore, this claim should be approached with skepticism.

It is crucial to rely on peer-reviewed scientific studies and statements from reputable organizations when evaluating claims related to medical treatments, especially during a global health crisis.