Florida invests $60 million in cancer research, focusing on ivermectin and repurposed drugs
By willowt // 2025-09-27
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  • Why: To explore alternative cancer treatments like ivermectin, which is cheap and lacks a profit-driven research model.
  • Who: Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, with backing from Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo.
  • When: Announced on World Cancer Research Day, September 24, 2025.
  • Where: University of South Florida.
  • What: Florida is investing $60 million into the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, focusing on repurposed drugs and preventative nutrition.
On World Cancer Research Day, September 24, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced a significant investment of $60 million into cutting-edge cancer research. The funds, part of the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, aim to explore alternative cancer treatments using repurposed drugs, with a particular focus on ivermectin, a well-established anti-parasitic medication. This initiative reflects the state’s commitment to finding innovative solutions that can benefit taxpayers and patients alike, despite the lack of financial incentives for pharmaceutical companies.

The role of ivermectin in cancer research

Ivermectin, an anti-parasitic medication widely used to treat parasitic infections, has drawn attention for its potential applications in cancer treatment. This interest stems from promising pre-clinical data suggesting its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Florida’s surgeon general, emphasized the importance of investigating alternative therapies that can provide affordable and accessible treatment options. “We’re uniquely positioned to do this because big pharma doesn’t profit from relatively cheap drugs like ivermectin,” he stated. First Lady Casey DeSantis, a cancer survivor herself, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the need to look beyond conventional treatments.

Repurposing ivermectin for cancer treatment

While ivermectin is not currently approved by the FDA for cancer treatment, there is a growing body of research supporting its potential. Dr. Paul Marik, a prominent researcher in the field, highlighted its effectiveness in combination with other drugs. “Ivermectin inhibits cancer cell viability, showing promise in treating several types of cancer,” he told a press conference. However, cautious optimism is warranted given the limitations in clinical evidence. Some experts caution against the use of ivermectin due to insufficient rigorous evidence, emphasizing that further research is essential to validate its clinical effectiveness.

Historical context and current challenges

The push to repurpose ivermectin for cancer treatment is not without historical context. The off-patent nature of ivermectin—meaning it is inexpensive—has long been a barrier to pharmaceutical investment in expanding its use. This phenomenon exemplifies the broader debate surrounding drug repurposing and the emphasis on affordable treatments. Despite the potential benefits, these drugs often lack the financial incentives that drive large-scale clinical trials, thus remaining underutilized. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ivermectin gained prominence, with some advocating for its use as a preventive and treatment option. The FDA issued warnings against its misuse, which further polarized opinions on the drug’s efficacy. The DeSantis administration’s current push to explore ivermectin in cancer treatment underscores the ongoing tension between scientific rigor and public health advocacy.

Collaboration and innovation at the forefront

The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, initiated three years ago, has already made a substantial impact by funding 95 researchers with $80 million. This year’s $60 million injection aims to deepen these efforts, focusing particularly on nutrition and the repurposing of generic drugs like ivermectin. The fund’s distribution is guided by the potential for quick results and measurable outcomes, with priority given to translational research, 12-month clinical trials, and interventions benefiting rural and underserved populations. During the press conference, Governor DeSantis emphasized the state’s dedication to making Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research. “Investing in innovation today means saving lives tomorrow,” he said. The initiative also highlights the role of academic partnerships, with the University of South Florida serving as a key player in advancing this research.

A vision for the future

As Florida embarks on this ambitious cancer research initiative, the state stands at the forefront of a broader movement advocating for affordable, innovative treatments. By focusing on ivermectin and other repurposed drugs, the DeSantis administration aims to bridge the gap between research and patient care. However, the success of this initiative hinges on rigorous scientific validation and maintaining ethical standards. As the world watches, Florida’s commitment to exploring alternative therapies may serve as a model for other states and nations, ultimately striving for a future where cancer is less of a death sentence and more of a manageable condition. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com FLGov.com FloridaPolitics.com
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