Ivermectine Eg Labo (Ivermectin)

• Ivermectin is an anthelmintic used to treat infections caused by nematodes and ectoparasites.
• Onchocerciasis: reduces microfilarial load and helps control disease progression.
• Strongyloidiasis: eliminates intestinal larvae and prevents disseminated infection.
• Scabies: eradicates Sarcoptes scabiei mites, relieving skin lesions.
• Lymphatic filariasis: decreases adult worm burden and microfilaremia.
• Other helminth infections: provides broad‑spectrum activity against various intestinal worms.

• Ivermectin binds selectively to glutamate‑gated chloride channels found in many invertebrates. This binding increases the permeability of the channel to chloride ions, causing hyperpolarization of the parasite's nerve or muscle cells, leading to paralysis, loss of attachment, and eventual death of the organism.

Ivermectin may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness: transient sensation of lightheadedness.
• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Diarrhea: loose stools.
• Abdominal pain: cramping discomfort.
• Pruritus: itching of the skin.
• Headache: mild to moderate tension‑type pain.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin reactions: including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Visual disturbances: blurred vision or optic neuritis.
• Seizures: rare neurologic events.
• Anaphylaxis: acute allergic reaction with airway compromise.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: rare conduction abnormalities.

• When prescribing ivermectin, several safety considerations should be observed.
• Pregnancy: safety not established; avoid unless benefit outweighs risk.
• Breastfeeding: unknown excretion; consider potential infant exposure.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: use with caution and monitor function.
• Concomitant medications: review for potential interactions, especially CYP3A4 inhibitors.
• Pediatric use: dosing requires specialist assessment; not recommended for infants.
• Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: keep in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Ivermectin can interact with other medicines, affecting its concentration or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: may increase ivermectin plasma levels, raising toxicity risk.
• Warfarin: potential enhancement of anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring.
• P‑glycoprotein inhibitors: can raise systemic exposure, increasing adverse events.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine): may reduce ivermectin effectiveness.
• Other antiparasitic agents: additive toxicity, especially neurotoxicity.