What is Ivermectin: Uses, Interactions & Warnings?

What is ivermectin?

• The anti-parasite drug is ivermectin.
• Ivermectin is used to treat infections in the body caused by these parasites.

Ivermectin is currently being tested as a treatment for the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which is the virus that causes COVID-19. So far, studies have shown that ivermectin reduces the cell-associated volume of viral DNA by 99.8 percent in 24 hours. More studies are needed to determine the efficacy of this medication in humans with COVID-19.

• Click for more detail on the use of ivermectin in the treatment of COVID-19 and other medications for prevention and investigation.

What is Ivermectin used for?

Ivermectin is mainly used to recover from many types of parasitic infections which are as follows:

• Head lice
• Scabies
• River blindness
• Diarrhea
• Worm infections

How to take Ivermectin for treatment

• However, patients with disorders of the immune system, such as those with infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), may continue to use a dose to treat the infection every 2 weeks for many weeks. Some patients will continue to use the drug every month to prevent the infection from coming back.
• Typically, to cure the infection, you would only need one dose of the drug.
• Taking this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water on an empty stomach is safest.
• The physician will inform you how much medicine to use. Use no more than directed.
• Typically, to cure the infection, you would only need one dose of the drug.
• Patients with immune system defects, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, can, however, need to take a dose every 2 weeks to treat the infection. for several weeks. Some patients will continue to use the drug every month to prevent the infection from coming back.
• The physician will inform you how much medicine to use. Use no more than directed.
• Taking this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water on an empty stomach is safest.

What to do when you miss a dose of Ivermectin?

• Oral route Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health care professional about the best way to dispose of expired or no longer needed medicine.
• Keep all medication out of children’s hands. Never share with anyone your medication.
• You must use this medication on a fixed timetable. Contact a doctor or pharmacist if a dose is missing.

Contraindications for Ivermectin

• This medication should not be used if you have had an allergic reaction to Ivermectin.

Interactions between Ivermectin

• Make sure your doctor knows whether you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
• Inform your doctor if you are being treated for a threadworm intestinal infection. To make sure that the virus is gone, you will need to get your bowel movements checked. It is very important that you conduct these tests as frequently as ordered by your doctor.
• If you are being treated for river blindness (Onchocerciasis), to kill the adult parasite, you will need medication and surgery. For follow-up treatment, you will need to see your doctor.
• If your symptoms do not change, or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Side Effects of Ivermectin

Severe Side Effects

• Pain in the joint.
• Extreme scratching, rash, or urination.
• Swelling or tenderness under the arms, in the throat, or around the groin.
• Fainting.
• Fever.
• Allergic reactions: scratching or urination, swelling of the face or hands, swelling or tingling of the mouth or throat, tightness of the chest, difficulty breathing
• Irritation to the eye or eyelids, discomfort, redness, or swelling.

Fewer serious side effects

• Moderate rash or scratching.
• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or pain in your stomach.
• Tiredness or insecurity.
• Dizziness.