Anthelmintic avermectins kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis, including multidrug-resistant clinical strains

Abstract

Avermectins are a family of macrolides known for their anthelmintic activities and traditionally believed to be inactive against all bacteria. Here we report that members of the family, ivermectin, selamectin, and moxidectin, are bactericidal against mycobacterial species, including multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant clinical strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Avermectins are approved for clinical and veterinary uses and have documented pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. We suggest that avermectins could be repurposed for tuberculosis treatment.