The Medical Advisor

Medically Reviewed by: Dr Frank Yap, MD | Written by:     Meillya Wijaya | Last Updated: July 18, 2026 Lumbrokinase, nattokinase, and serrapeptase are all enzymes that have been studied for their potential health benefits. They are all considered as proteolytic enzymes. Proteolytic enzymes have a variety of roles in the body, from helping to digest food to taking part in the immune response. While interest in these compounds has grown, it’s important to understand their mechanisms, evidence base, and safety considerations clearly. What is Lumbrokinase? Lumbrokinase (LK) is an enzyme derived from earthworms is thought to aid in blood clot prevention, inflammation reduction, and circulation problems.  Lumbrokinase for Blood Clots Thrombolytic agents typically used to dissolve clots are urokinase (u-PA), streptokinase, and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). These drugs, however, are not specific for fibrin and have adverse and dangerous side effects including severe bl...

Medically Reviewed by: Dr Frank Yap, MD | Written by:     OneDayMD Editorial Team | Last Updated: August 8, 2026 Abstract Background: Head and neck cancers (HNC), predominantly squamous cell carcinomas, remain a significant global health burden with substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in advanced or recurrent disease. Despite progress in surgery, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, treatment resistance and toxicity continue to limit long-term outcomes. Repurposed antiparasitic agents, including ivermectin and fenbendazole, have gained attention for their potential anticancer properties based on preclinical evidence and emerging anecdotal clinical observations. Objective: To evaluate the biological rationale, preclinical evidence, and real-world anecdotal data supporting the use of ivermectin and fenbendazole in head and neck cancers, and to contextualize these findings within current oncologic treatment paradigms. Methods: A narrative synthesis was conducted in...