Content
Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum vermifuge substance, capable of paralyzing and eliminating various types of worms that cause problems such as onchocerciasis, elephantiasis, pediculosis, ascariasis, scabies or intestinal strongyloidiasis, for example.
This remedy can be administered to adults and children over 5 years, and can be purchased in conventional pharmacies in generic or under the trade name of Ivermec, Plurimec, Levercitin or Revectina, in the form of tablets.
What is it for
Ivermectin is indicated for the treatment of:
- Intestinal strongyloidiasis;
- Filariasis (elephantiasis);
- Scabies (scabies);
- Ascaridosis (roundworm infestation);
- Pediculosis (lice infestation);
- Onchocerciasis (river blindness).
Learn to identify the signs and symptoms of onchocerciasis.
Can ivermectin be used to treat COVID-19?
Although it has shown promising results in eliminating the new coronavirus, ivermectin is not recommended for the treatment of COVID-19.
Ivermectin was tested by researchers in Australia in a cell culture in vitro, who demonstrated that this substance is effective in eliminating the SARS-CoV-2 virus in just 48 hours [1]. However, these results are not sufficient to prove its effectiveness in humans, and clinical trials are necessary to verify its real effectiveness. in vivo, and further determine whether the therapeutic dose is safe in humans, which may take 6 to 9 months.
Learn more about the drugs to treat the new coronavirus infection.
How to use
This medicine is usually used in a single dose, which varies according to the problem to be treated and the person's weight:
1. Strongyloidiasis, filariasis, lice and scabies
To treat strongyloidiasis, filariasis, lice infestation or scabies, the recommended dose should be adjusted to your weight, as follows:
Weight (in Kg) | No. of tablets (6 mg) |
15 to 24 | ½ tablet |
25 to 35 | 1 tablet |
36 to 50 | 1 ½ tablet |
51 to 65 | 2 tablets |
66 to 79 | 2 ½ tablets |
more than 80 | 200 mcg per kg |
2. Onchocerciasis
To treat onchocerciasis, the recommended dose, depending on weight, is as follows:
Weight (in Kg) | No. of tablets (6 mg) |
15 to 25 | ½ tablet |
26 to 44 | 1 tablet |
45 to 64 | 1 ½ tablet |
65 to 84 | 2 tablets |
more than 85 | 150 mcg per Kg |
The drug should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before the first meal of the day. It should not be taken with drugs of the barbiturate, benzodiazepine or valproic acid class.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that can occur during treatment with this medication include diarrhea, tiredness, bellyache, weight loss, constipation and vomiting. In some cases, dizziness, drowsiness, dizziness, tremors and hives may also appear on the skin.
Who should not take
This remedy is contraindicated for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children under 5 years or 15 kg and patients with meningitis or asthma. In addition, it should also not be used in people with hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any of the other components present in the formula.