⚠️ This Claim Is Real—But the Headline Needs Context
There is a recent European Medicines Agency (EMA) safety action that matches much of this claim, involving levamisole-containing medicines.
In March 2026, the EMA recommended withdrawing levamisole medicines from the EU market after an EU-wide review confirmed a rare but serious adverse effect called leukoencephalopathy, which damages the brain’s white matter. Importantly, the review found that this complication can occur after a single dose, and symptoms may appear from one day to several months later. (European Medicines Agency (EMA))
What is levamisole?
Levamisole is an antiparasitic medicine used in some countries to treat certain intestinal worm infections. The EMA says other treatments are available in the EU. (European Medicines Agency (EMA))
🚨 Symptoms to know
Someone who has taken levamisole should seek medical attention if they develop:
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion or cognitive changes
- Problems coordinating movements
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Problems with vision or other neurological functions (European Medicines Agency (EMA))
An important correction
The EMA’s action was a recommendation to withdraw marketing authorisations, rather than a blanket statement that every person who takes the drug will suffer brain damage. Leukoencephalopathy is described as rare, but potentially debilitating or life-threatening. (European Medicines Agency (EMA))
If you or a family member has recently taken a levamisole-containing medicine, don’t panic or stop another prescribed medicine based on this headline. Contact a doctor or pharmacist for individualized advice, particularly if any neurological symptoms develop.
