Ivermectin: Benefits, Side Effects and Precautions

Ivermectin is an anti-parasite medication. It is used for treating infections in the body which are caused by certain parasites. It works by binding to invertebrate muscle and nerve cells of parasites, causing paralysis and death of parasites.

Ivermectin Tablet Uses

Ivermectin was approved by the FDA in November 1996 for the treatment of various parasitic infections.

It is primarily used to treat:

• Intestinal infections caused by Strongyloides Stercoralis.
• Non-adult forms of Onchocerca Volvulus.
• Head lice, blepharitis, and filariasis.

Quick Highlight of Its Benefits

• Highly effective against multiple types of parasites
• Rapid symptom relief for conditions like scabies and lice
• Well-tolerated with few side effects

Conditions Ivermectin Treats:

• Strongyloidiasis (intestinal roundworm)
• Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
• Scabies
• Head lice
• Filariasis (a mosquito-borne parasitic disease)
• Rosacea (topical form)

COVID-19 Research:

• Investigated as a potential treatment for SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19.
• Trials show promising results, reducing viral DNA levels by 99.8% within 24 hours.
• Ongoing studies to determine its effectiveness in COVID-19 treatment.

If you experience breathing issues or infection-related complications, consult our Pulmonologists for expert evaluation and personalized treatment.

Dosage

• Dosages are very complicated as it vary with each disease.
• The dose of Ivermectin begins with 15 kg weight and varies up to 80 or 85 kg depending on the disease.

Strongyloidiasis

The recommended dosage of Ivermectin for the treatment of Strongyloidiasis is single oral dose i.e. 200 mcg of Ivermectin per kg of the body weight.

Dosage for Strongyloidiasis

Onchocerciasis

The recommended dosage of Ivermectin for the treatment of Onchocerciasis is single oral dose designed i.e. 150 mcg Ivermectin per kg of body weight.

• Head Lice: 200 mcg/kg, 1-2 additional doses can be repeated after 7 days
• Blepharitis: 200 mcg/kg as a single dose
• Filariasis Due to mansonella Ozzardi: 6 mg as a single dose
• Filariasis Due to Mansonella Streptocera: 150 mcg/kg as a single dose

Missed Dose

• Missing one or two-dose of Ivermectin won't show any effect on your body.
• The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medication, it won't work if you don't take the dosage on time.
• If you miss a dose, some sudden chemical change may affect your body.
• In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.

Overdose

• Overdose of a drug can be accidental.
• If you have taken more than the prescribed Ivermectin tablets, there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions.
• Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.

Side Effects of Ivermectin

Some of the common side effects of Ivermectin are:

• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain or bloating
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Weakness
• Sleepiness
• Chest Discomfort

Some of the serious side effects of Ivermectin are

• Swelling of the eyes, face, arms ankles and lower legs
• Joint Pain
• Painful and swollen glands of neck, armpit and groin
• Irregular heartbeat
• Eye pain and redness
• Fever
• Blistering or peeling skin
• Rashes
• Hives
• Itching

If you have any of these serious symptoms, immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. In any case, if you get any kind of reaction in your body due to Ivermectin, try avoiding it. Get medical help immediately if you experience any serious side effects from Ivermectin. You can also visit our Pulmonology Department for proper diagnosis and care of respiratory and parasitic infections.

Precautions and Warnings Before Taking Ivermectin

• Inform your doctor of any allergies to Ivermectin or other medications.
• Disclose all prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products to your doctor.
• Consult your doctor if taking medications for anxiety, mental illness, seizures, muscle relaxants, sedatives, or sleeping pills.

Warnings for Serious Health Conditions:

Pregnancy:

• Ivermectin's safety and efficacy in pregnant women haven't been sufficiently studied.
• Pregnant women should avoid Ivermectin to prevent risks to the unborn baby.

Breastfeeding:

• Ivermectin can pass into breast milk, potentially harming the nursing baby.
• Consult your doctor before taking Ivermectin while breastfeeding.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Ivermectin?

• Safe for adults and children over 15 kg
• Topical form may be used in older children and adolescents under guidance

Alcohol or Food Interactions

• Oral form: Take on an empty stomach with water
• Alcohol: No direct interaction, but avoid excessive intake, especially with liver concerns

How to Take Ivermectin

• Usually taken as a single dose on an empty stomach with water.
• Follow prescription directions; consult your doctor for proper dosage timing.
• For Strongyloidiasis treatment, stool exams should be performed at least three times in the first three months after treatment to check for infection clearance.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

May Interact With:

• Warfarin - may increase bleeding risk
• Barbiturates and benzodiazepines - additive sedative effects
• Immunosuppressants - can affect parasite control
• Other antiparasitics - additive effects, use with caution

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist about potential drug interactions.

Storage

• Protect medicine from heat, air, and light to prevent damage and harmful effects.
• Store at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
• Keep medicine in a safe place, out of children's reach.

Additional Advice

• Consult your doctor before taking Ivermectin.
• Seek medical attention for any problems or side effects.
• Carry medication while travelling for emergencies.
• Follow prescription instructions and your doctor's advice diligently.

Ivermectin vs. Albendazole

References