Pharm

Ivermectin

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Ivermectin, Mectizan, Stromectol

  • Indication
  1. Scabies (refractory to Permethrin 5%)
  2. Head Lice
  3. Strongyloidiasis
  4. Onchocerciasis
  • Mechanism
  1. Related to Macrolide antibiotics
  2. Developed initially as veterinary anti-parasitic agent
  • Preparations
  1. Ivermectin 6 mg tablet
  • Dosing
  1. Scabies or Head Lice
    1. Ivermectin 200 mcg/kg PO x1 dose, repeat in 10 days
  2. Strongyloidiasis
    1. Ivermectin 200 mcg/kg PO for 1 dose
  3. Onchocerciasis
    1. Ivermectin 150 mcg/kg PO for 1 dose
  1. Studies show efficacy over Lindane for Scabies
    1. Madan (2001) J Dermatol 28:481-4 [PubMed]
  2. Permethrin 5% appears to be more effective for Scabies
    1. Usha (2000) J Am Acad Dermatol 42:236-40 [PubMed]
  • Precautions
  1. Safe in children >15 kg (33 pounds)
  2. Avoid in Lactation
  3. Pregnancy Category: C
  • Adverse Effects (due to allergy to Parasite death)
  1. Nausea
  2. Fever
  3. Headache
  4. Arthralgia
  5. Rash
  • Reference
  1. Meinking (1995) N Engl J Med 333:26 [PubMed]
  2. Fawcett (2003) Am Fam Physician 68(6):1089-92 [PubMed]