Ivermectin is a drug antiparasitic used to treat diseases caused by helminth infections, such as strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis. In addition, this drug can also be used to treat head lice and lice treat rosacea.
To treat worm infections, ivermectin works by immobilizing and killing worm larvae in the body. This drug can also suppress the production of microfilariae. That way, the number of worms that infect the body will be reduced.
The drug is also thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect and the ability to inhibit a special protein that the virus needs to attack the body. Currently, the effectiveness and safety of ivermectin for treating COVID-19 is still being studied. Therefore, this drug should not be used without the supervision and approval of a doctor.
Trademark: Ivermectin
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What is Ivermectin
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Antiparasitic |
| Benefit | Overcoming parasitic infections |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding category | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. The drug should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Ivermectin is absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets, lotions, creams |
Precautions Before Using Ivermectin
Ivermectin should be used according to a doctor's prescription. There are a few things you should pay attention to before using ivermectin:
- Do not use ivermectin if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while on treatment with ivermectin.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease, kidney disease, cancer, HIV/AIDS, a weakened immune system, sleeping sickness, or meningitis.
- Do not drive a vehicle or do activities that require alertness after taking ivermectin, as this medicine may cause dizziness.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction, overdose, or serious side effect after taking ivermectin.
Dosage and Instructions for Use of Ivermectin
The following is the dosage of ivermectin based on the condition to be treated and the age of the patient:
- Condition: StrongyloidiasisAdults and children weighing 15 kg: 200 mcg/kg for 1–2 days.
- Condition: Onchocerciasis (worm infection Ochocerca volvulus)
Adults and children weighing 15 kg: 150 mcg/kg body weight as a single dose. Treatment is repeated every 3–12 months until symptoms disappear.
- Condition: RosaceaMature: As a 1% cream, apply an adequate amount to problem areas once a day for a maximum of 4 months. Treatment can be repeated if needed.
- Condition: Lice
Adults and children 6 months of age: As a 0.5% lotion, applied to the scalp and hair as a single dose. Leave it for 10 minutes before rinsing.
How to Use Ivermectin Correctly
Always follow your doctor's advice and read the instructions on the medicine package before using ivermectin.
Ivermectin tablets are taken on an empty stomach, for example 1 hour before a meal. Swallow the ivermectin tablets whole with the help of a glass of water. Do not chew, split, or crush the medicine as it may decrease its effectiveness.
Take ivermectin tablets regularly. Even if you feel better, keep taking ivermectin until it's finished. In overcoming parasitic infections, treatment using ivermectin must be carried out thoroughly.
If you forget to take ivermectin tablets, take them immediately if the distance to the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Use ivermectin lotion on the scalp that has been cleaned and dried first. Apply lotion evenly to the entire surface of the scalp. Leave the medicine for 10 minutes before rinsing with clean water.
Apply ivermectin cream thinly on the problem skin. Make sure the area to be treated is dry and clean. Avoid getting the drug in the eyes and mouth.
Store ivermectin in a closed container, at room temperature, in a dry place, and away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Ivermectin Interactions with Other Drugs
The use of ivermectin with certain drugs can cause several interactions, including:
- Increased blood levels of ivermectin when used with amiodarone, atorvastatin, quinidine, or clarithromycin
- Decreased blood levels of ivermectin when used with phenytoin, nifedipine, or phenobarbital
- Enhanced anticoagulant effect of warfarin
- Decreased therapeutic effect Lactobacillus or estriol
Ivermectin Side Effects and Dangers
There are several side effects that can occur after using ivermectin, including:
- Headache or dizziness
- Muscle ache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Mild skin rash
Check with your doctor if these side effects don't get better or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Painful, red, swollen, or blurry eyes
- Impaired balance or difficulty walking
- Mood swings, confusion, or loss of consciousness
- Fever, stomach pain, joint pain, swelling in the feet or hands, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Fast heart rate or shortness of breath
- Pain in the neck or back
- Seizures
- Dizzy until you feel like you're going to faint