Ivermectin
Ivermectin is anthelmintic agent. Ivermectin is a semisynthetic macrocyclic lactone. Ivermectin is a mixture of two closely related it compound B1a and B1b. Ivermectin is derived from the soil actinomycete Streptomyces avermitilis and effective against many nematodes and arthropod species.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Macrocyclic lactone.
It is classified in Anthelmintics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 875.1 · Solubility in Water: insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: Soluble · Non-proprietary name: Ivermectin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ivermectin has an oral bioavailability is 30% (±30%).
Distribution: Ivermectin has a volume of distribution is 46.9 litre. plasma protein binding is 93%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 12-28 hr, renal excretion is < 1 %.
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Indications
Ivermectin is primarily indicated in conditions like Lymphatic filariasis, Onchoceriasis, Strongyloides stercoralis, Strongyloidiasis.
Contraindications
Ivermectin is contraindicated in conditions like Meningitis, Trypanosomiasis, Seizures, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Ivermectin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 7.5 mg | 7.5 mg | Every 24h | No food should be taken 2 hour before and after dose.Once or twice a year for onchocesciasis. | |
| 200 ug/kg | 200 ug/kg | Every 24h | PO | For 2 Conseutive Days, For treatment of strongyloixiasis. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | — | Not Recommended in this Age Group |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
None recorded.
Side Effects
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Ivermectin are Emesis, Mydriasis, Sedation .
Ivermectin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Arthralgia, Cough , Diarrhea, Dizziness, Edema, Fever, Headache, Lymph-node tenderness, Lymphadenopathy, Myalgia, Nausea, Orthostatic hypotension, Pruritus , Rashes , Sore throat.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ivermectin may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevation in ALT or AST.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.1.2 — Antifilarials