Ivermectin Biomo (Ivermectin)

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic agent used to treat infections caused by nematodes and ectoparasites.

• Onchocerciasis: eliminates microfilariae, reducing skin and ocular disease.
• Strongyloidiasis: eradicates intestinal larvae, preventing chronic infection.
• Scabies: kills Sarcoptes mites, relieving itching and skin lesions.
• Lymphatic filariasis: reduces adult worm burden, helping control transmission.
• Pediculosis (head lice): destroys lice and nits, controlling infestation.

• Ivermectin binds selectively to glutamate‑gated chloride channels found in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This binding increases chloride ion influx, hyperpolarizing the cell membrane, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite while having minimal effect on mammalian cells due to the absence of these channels in humans.

Ivermectin may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and self‑limiting.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Diarrhea: loose stools occurring shortly after dosing.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Pruritus: skin itching, especially in scabies treatment.
• Rash: mild skin erythema.
• Headache: occasional mild headache.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Neurologic events: seizures, ataxia, or altered consciousness.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes.
• Hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure.
• Anaphylaxis: rare systemic allergic reaction.

Before prescribing Ivermectin, clinicians should consider patient-specific factors and monitor for potential risks.

• Pregnancy: safety not established; avoid unless benefit outweighs risk.
• Breastfeeding: unknown excretion; assess risk versus benefit.
• Liver disease: use with caution in hepatic impairment.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: monitor for enhanced sedation.
• Drug interactions: review patient medication list for known interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ivermectin can interact with several drug classes, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): may increase ivermectin plasma levels.
• P‑glycoprotein inhibitors (e.g., verapamil): can raise systemic exposure.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): monitor coagulation parameters.

• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): watch for additive sedation.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine): assess for altered efficacy.