Introduction
At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP, I am passionate about integrative, functional wellness and supporting my clients’ health journeys with compassion and transparency. As interest grows in complementary therapies for cancer support, two medications—Fenbendazole
and Ivermectin, (and others)—have come into the spotlight for their potential roles in holistic health plans. Let’s explore why these medications are being discussed and what you should know.
Fenbendazole: (Many Forms)
1. Disrupting Microtubule Dynamics:
Fenbendazole belongs to the benzimidazole class of drugs, which can disrupt the formation of microtubules, structures essential for cell division and growth.
This disruption can hinder the mitotic spindle, a structure critical for cell division, ultimately inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.
2. Inhibiting Glucose Uptake and Metabolism:
Fenbendazole may interfere with glucose transport into cancer cells, limiting their energy supply and potentially leading to cell death.
By disrupting glucose metabolism, fenbendazole could also reduce lactate production, which is important for cancer cell survival and drug resistance.
3. Activating p53 and Inducing Apoptosis:
Fenbendazole may activate the p53 tumor suppressor protein, a critical regulator of cell cycle and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
Stabilizing p53 can enhance the cellular response to DNA damage and potentially induce apoptosis in cancer cells.
4. Cell Cycle Arrest:
Some studies suggest that fenbendazole can induce cell cycle arrest, particularly in the G2/M phase, preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying
Ivermectin:
1. Inducing Apoptosis:
Ivermectin can trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various cancer cell lines.
This involves activating the caspase cascade, a critical pathway for apoptosis, leading to the dismantling of the cancer cell.
2. Inhibiting Cell Proliferation:
Ivermectin has been observed to suppress the growth and proliferation of several cancer types in laboratory settings.
This may be achieved by interfering with signaling pathways crucial for cancer cell survival and division, such as the Akt/mTOR pathway.
3. Targeting Cancer Stem Cells:
Ivermectin may have the ability to target and disrupt the stemness of cancer stem cells, which are often responsible for tumor regrowth and treatment resistance.
This could lead to a more effective cancer treatment and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
4. Turning “Cold” Tumors “Hot”:
Ivermectin can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in cancer cells, releasing danger signals that alert the immune system.
This can convert immune-silent “cold” tumors into “hot” tumors that are more visible to and susceptible to attack by the body’s immune cells.
5. Inhibiting Metastasis:
Research suggests ivermectin may be able to reduce the ability of cancer cells to migrate and metastasize (spread to other parts of the body).
This could potentially inhibit the growth and spread of secondary tumors.
Why Are People Talking About These Medications for Cancer Support?
Emerging Research: Preliminary laboratory studies suggest that Fenbendazole and Ivermectin may have properties that interfere with cancer cell growth. For example, Fenbendazole has been studied for its ability to disrupt cellular processes that are important for tumor growth, while Ivermectin has shown potential anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.
Holistic Interest: Many individuals seeking integrative wellness approaches are interested in therapies that go beyond conventional treatments. At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP, Located in Holladay, Utah, I believe in empowering clients with information so they can make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare team.
Functional Medicine Perspective: Our approach is to consider the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Exploring alternative options, under careful guidance, can sometimes be part of a comprehensive wellness strategy.
What Does the Evidence Say?
While there is growing interest in these medications, it’s essential to emphasize that current evidence is limited, and neither Fenbendazole nor Ivermectin is FDA-approved for cancer treatment in humans.
Our Commitment to Safe, Informed Care
At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP, Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We do not offer or recommend any therapy without a thorough discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives. If you are interested in learning about innovative or supportive wellness options, I encourage you to consult with your primary care provider or oncologist before making any changes to your treatment plan.
