The TGA has lifted the ban on off-label prescribing of ivermectin by GPs, but warns the decision is not an endorsement of the drug for prevention or treatment of COVID-19. 

Rather, the move reflected high rates of vaccination and hybrid immunity against COVID-19 in Australia, which meant the level of prescribing off-label was unlikely to compromise public health, the watchdog said in a statement.

The decision reverses a September 2021 restriction on GPs prescribing oral ivermectin for off-label uses, including for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.

It was introduced because of concerns about patients using the drug without health advice to treat COVID-19, widespread use of ivermectin instead of vaccines, and potential shortages of the medication for approved uses.