Ivermectin
Molecule Description
Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medicine. It is used for the management and tre
atment of various infections caused by parasites like worm and lice. Ivermectin is available in different formulations like a tablet, suspension, cream, lotion, soap and shampoo. Ivermectin tablet and suspension are used for the treatment of worm infection of the intestine. Topical preparations like shampoo and soap are used for the treatment of head lice whereas cream and lotion are used for reducing swelling, pain and redness due to a skin condition rosacea.
Uses of Ivermectin
For the treatment and management of worm infections, head lice and to reduce inflammatory lesion in rosacea.
Contraindications of Ivermectin
When should one not use Ivermectin
If you are allergic to Ivermectin, similar medicines.
Side effects of Ivermectin
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Dizziness, tiredness, stomach upset, loss of appetite, shakiness, sleepiness, skin rash or itching is experienced with oral preparations.
- Burning sensation and skin irritation are few side effects associated with topical formulations of Ivermectin.
Precautions and Warnings of Ivermectin
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Ivermectin during pregnancy?
A:
Ivermectin should not be used during pregnancy as there is limited safety information available in pregnant women. Please consult the doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant before starting the medicine.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Ivermectin while breastfeeding?
A:
Components of the medicine pass in breast milk in low amounts. Inform the doctor that you are breastfeeding while he/she prescribes you the medicine.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed ivermectin?
A:
Consuming oral preparation like tablets and suspension makes you feel dizzy and sleepy. Avoid driving if you experience these side effects. Topical preparations containing Ivermectin have no or negligible influence on driving ability.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Ivermectin?
A:
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Ivermectin.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You may experience an allergic reaction after taking or applying.
- You may experience headache, dizziness, vertigo, blurred vision, fits.
- There is no improvement in the condition while on treatment.
- While on treatment the doctor may ask you to perform a routine examination of stool to check if the infection is getting cleared.
Mode of Action of Ivermectin
How Does It Work?
Ivermectin attaches to the muscle and nerve cells of the parasite and increases the permeability of the outer membrane, thus causing paralysis and death of the parasite. It has anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its action in treating rosacea and associated symptoms....
Interactions of Ivermectin
Interactions with other medicines
- Some medicines affect the way Ivermectin works, or the medicine itself reduces the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
- Inform the doctor about the medicines, supplements, or herbals you are taking or might take to avoid possible interaction.
- Ivermectin must be used with caution along with blood thinners like warfarin.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Mansi Savla
B. Pharm, PharmD
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
References
View All
- DailyMed - STROMECTOL- ivermectin tablet [Internet]. Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov. 2021 [cited 19 May 2021]
- Drugs H. Ivermectin: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. 2021 [cited 19 May 2021]
- CDSCO [Internet]. Cdscoonline.gov.in. 2021 [cited 19 May 2021]
- DailyMed - SOOLANTRA- ivermectin cream [Internet]. Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov. 2021 [cited 19 May 2021]
- Drugs H. Ivermectin Topical: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. 2021 [cited 19 May 2021]
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