Authorities have flagged concerns over scores of messages posted on websites for agents that import drugs into Japan from those who have mail ordered the anti-parasite drug ivermectin.
“I just received the package and, to prevent (coronavirus) infection, I’m going to take it from today,” a 52-year-old man wrote in a message posted in September.
Ivermectin is touted by some people opposed to COVID-19 vaccinations as a "miracle drug" for the disease, despite a lack of overwhelming scientific evidence supporting it. But it is perhaps the one drug over which scientists around the world are most divided in terms of its efficacy in preventing COVID-19 and treating the illness.