New positive ivermectin evidence

Summary

Dr. John Campbell discusses a pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Australian trial of a single dose of ivermectin given after close contact with someone who had COVID-19. The trial began in 2021 and was published in late 2025; Campbell questions why publication took so long.

Trial design and results

Participants received one dose of 200 micrograms per kilogram within 72 hours of exposure. Of 536 people initially recruited, 86 met the inclusion criteria and were randomized. The analysis included 68 participants who adhered to the protocol.

The primary outcome was whether participants tested positive within 14 days. The trial did not show that ivermectin prevented infection: 11 of 36 participants in the ivermectin group and 11 of 32 in the placebo group tested positive.

Among participants who tested positive, Campbell reports that those in the ivermectin group took an average of 2.3 days longer to test positive and had 2.5 more days alive and free of symptoms. He interprets these findings as evidence of an antiviral effect. However, the small sample size limits how confidently the results can be interpreted, and the trial itself did not demonstrate prevention of infection.

Campbell’s interpretation and broader claims

Campbell suggests that larger or repeated doses might have produced stronger findings, but this is speculation rather than a result tested in the trial. He also discusses proposed antiviral mechanisms, including interference with proteins involved in transporting viral material into a cell nucleus. He cites research on ivermectin in laboratory models and its accumulation in cattle lungs, while acknowledging that comparable lung data in humans have not been established.

The commentary extends beyond the trial. Campbell cites other studies and Dr. Pierre Kory’s claims about ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment and preventive. He argues that ivermectin’s potential against other viruses and cancer warrants further research, and makes broader claims about its possible impact during the pandemic while criticizing past treatment decisions. These are his opinions and claims, not conclusions demonstrated by the small post-exposure trial discussed.

Campbell repeatedly states that his presentation is educational and not personal medical advice.

People mentioned

• Presenter: Dr. John Campbell
• Other people mentioned: Professor Clancy; Dr. Pierre Kory, who is quoted but is not a video contributor.