Ivermectin
Ivermectin is primarily prescribed to treat parasitic infections like Onchocerciasis, Helminthiases, Scabies, Ascariasis, Filariasis, etc.
It is an FDA -approved salt for treating infections caused due to whipworm, hookworm, and parasitic worms.
This salt aids in the treatment of illnesses by paralyzing or destroying parasRead more...
Ivermectin is primarily prescribed to treat parasitic infections like Onchocerciasis, Helminthiases, Scabies, Ascariasis, Filariasis, etc.
It is an FDA -approved salt for treating infections caused due to whipworm, hookworm, and parasitic worms.
This salt aids in the treatment of illnesses by paralyzing or destroying parasites within the body.
Ivermectin Uses
Parasites can pose a significant risk to human health if not eliminated or controlled within the body.
Doctors prescribe Ivermectin pills to treat various parasite infections, including
- Strongyloidiasis: Strongyloides stercoralis, a parasitic roundworm, is responsible for this infection, causing symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and skin rashes. Most of these infections are caused due to contaminated soil.
- Scabies: It is a contagious skin disease caused by burrowing mites. The most common symptom of Scabies is acute itching where the mites have built their burrows. It's a highly infectious parasitic illness that spreads quickly through physical contact.
- Ascariasis: Ascariasis is a roundworm infection. These parasitic worms grow from larvae or eggs to adult worms using your body as a host.
- Onchocerciasis: Onchocerciasis, sometimes known as "river blindness," is caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus. It spreads to people when infected blackflies bite them frequently. Severe irritation and eye damage, including permanent blindness, are among the symptoms.
- Filariasis: Filariasis is a parasitic infection caused due to roundworms of the Filarioidea genus. These are spread by blood-feeding insects such as mosquitoes and black flies.
How does Ivermectin work
Ivermectin belong to a group of antiparasitic and semisynthetic Anthelmintic groups of medications.
Ivermectin pills function by binding to Glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in nerve and muscle cells.
Thus, it gradually paralyzes and eliminates the parasite or temporarily prevents adult parasites from producing larvae.
Ivermectin dosage
Ivermectin tablets are prescription-based medicines that are intaken only when a doctor recommends them.
The dosage and strength in which one should consume this medicine are decided by the doctor depending upon the weight, age, severity, and the affected body part.
The doctor may recommend more than one dose of Ivermectin if you have a weak immune system.
You should swallow a tablet of Ivermectin with a glassful of water. Consume this tablet almost one hour before the meal on an empty stomach.
After a few months, if your infection has not subsided, your doctor can advise more dosages.
If you missed a dose, take it immediately. However, if the time for the next dose is almost there, skip it. Do not double the dosage of the medication.
Ivermectin side effects
This medicine might have some common side effects like
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Diarrhea
- Itching and rashes
- Swelling and redness in the eyes
Some severe side effects which you might face after consuming this pill are:
- Low blood pressure
- Seizure
- Trouble in standing or walking
- Confusion
- Extreme tiredness
- Extreme drowsiness
You might not face these side effects if you strictly adhere to the doctor's suggestions.
However, you must immediately inform your physician if you face any side effects.
To treat Nausea and Vomiting, you can use Vomistop on the doctor's recommendation.
Interactions
Ivermectin Drug Interactions
Some drugs might interact with Ivermectin and produce an undesired effect. Thus, it's recommended that you should not intake this medicine with:
- Barbiturates like Phenobarbital and Butalbital
- Sodium Oxybate
- Antiepileptic drugs like Valproic acid
- Anti-anxiety drugs Clonazepam and Lorazepam
Disease Interactions
It is essential to inform your doctor regarding your medical history. You should avoid consuming this drug if you have any of the following diseases:
Food Interactions
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Precautions
If you're allergic to Ivermectin, tell your doctor or pharmacist. This product's inactive chemicals could result in allergic reactions or other health issues or difficulties.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use Ivermectin only when prescribed by a doctor.
Ivermectin may cause dizziness. Thus, you should not take alcohol with it. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform other tasks requiring attention.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
It’s the doctor’s recommended, first-choice medicine to treat the parasitic infection. | This salt might interact with other drugs like Benzodiazepines, Sodium Oxybate,Antiepileptic drugs, Anti-anxiety drugs, etc. |
FDA - approved drug to treat a parasitic infection. | People with Meningitis, Human African Trypanosomiasis, HIV, Cardiovascular disease, or Lung disease cannot use Ivermectin pills. |
The parasitic infection will typically start to ease after two or three days of taking Ivermectin. |
Storage
Keep the medicine at room temperature below 30℃. Prevent exposure to direct sunlight and moisture. Also, keep this medicine away from pets and children.
Similar Salts
Another Salt alternative for Ivermectin is Albendazole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is an FDA Approved antiparasitic drug. It treats tropical diseases like Onchocerciasis, Helminthiases, Scabies, Ascariasis, Filariasis, etc.
This salt aids in the treatment of illnesses by paralyzing or destroying parasites within the body.
How long should I continue taking Ivermectin medicine?
This medication is a single-dose drug. If the infection is not cleared, your doctor may recommend additional doses after a few months.
Can I use Ivermectin medicine if I am pregnant?
This drug treats parasitic infections and should be consumed by pregnant and breastfeeding women only when the doctor recommends it.
What are the common side effects of Ivermectin tablets?
The common side effects of Ivermectin are muscle pain, joint pains, rashes, dizziness, Nausea, Diarrhea, swelling or redness in the eyes, etc. However, these side effects might not occur if you adhere to the doctor's suggestions.
How does Ivermectin work for parasites?
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug. Ivermectin pills function by binding to Glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in nerve and muscle cells.
Thus, it gradually paralyzes and eliminates the parasite or temporarily prevents adult parasites from producing larvae.
Can I take Ivermectin daily?
No, Ivermectin should not be taken daily. Always follow your doctor's instructions before taking this medicine.
Is Ivermectin available over the counter?
Ivermectin is a prescription-based medication. You should take this medicine only when your doctor suggests it.
How long does Ivermectin take to work?
The symptoms of parasitic infection will typically start to ease after two or three days of taking Ivermectin.
How long do Ivermectin side effects last?
Ivermectin causes mild symptoms like Nausea, muscle pain, and joint pain, which are relieved after 48 hours.
How long does Ivermectin stay in your system?
After around 18 hours, Ivermectin begins to leave the bloodstream, but it remains in the intestines for 12 days, where it continues to kill any worms there.