The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is studying ivermectin as a potential cancer treatment in a preclinical study testing its properties and ability to kill cancer cells[1]. NCI Director Anthony Letai stated that the study arose because of sufficient reports and public interest in ivermectin[1]. Previous laboratory research has shown that ivermectin promotes cell death and inhibits the growth of tumor cells[1]. These studies have been conducted with and without NIH funding[1]. However, there is no evidence that ivermectin is safe and effective in treating cancer in humans[1]. Preliminary data from a small clinical trial in patients with metastatic breast cancer in combination with immunotherapy did not show a significant benefit of ivermectin[1]. Some scientists are shocked and alarmed by this NCI initiative[1]. The NCI did not provide information on the cost of the study or the evidence behind it[1].