Working
Ivermectin Action Flow
- Targets glutamate-gated chloride channels in parasites.
- Locks open the channels, leading to chloride influx.
- Causes hyperpolarization, paralyzing the parasite's nerve and muscle function.
- Ivermectin leads to inactivity, starvation, and death of the parasite.
- In humans, it stays outside the CNS and spares normal function.
Ivermectin Generic disrupts the parasite's nervous and muscle function and causes its paralysis and death. It acts selectively on ion channels present in parasites but absent in humans, which makes it both effective and safe for human use.
- Binding to Glutamate-Gated Chloride Channels (GluCl)
What Are GluCl Channels?
These are ligand-gated ion channels in nerve and muscle cells of the invertebrates (nematodes, lice, mites). In parasites, these channels control the flow of chloride ions (Cl?) in and out of cells, helping regulate nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
What Does Ivermectin Generic Do?
Ivermectin Generic binds strongly and selectively to these glutamate-gated chloride channels. It locks the channel in an open state, causing an uncontrolled influx of chloride ions into the cells. It leads to hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell membrane (makes the inside more negative).
Result of Action
- Paralysis of the parasite’s neuromuscular system.
- Inability to move, feed, or reproduce.
- Death of the parasite over time.
- Effect on GABA-Gated Channels (Less Significant in Humans)
Ivermectin can also weakly bind to GABA-gated chloride channels, which are:
- Present in both parasites and humans.
- In humans, GABA activity is in the central nervous system (CNS).
- Ivermectin does not cross the blood-brain barrier easily, due to:
- P-glycoprotein efflux pumps protect the brain.
It minimizes CNS effects in humans.
- Immune Modulation (Secondary Effect)
Ivermectin may reduce inflammation by:
- Inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)
- Reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α
These effects can relieve symptoms, especially in skin conditions like scabies or Rosacea.
- Selective Toxicity – Why it is Safe for Humans
Humans do not have glutamate-gated chloride channels in their peripheral nerves or muscles. Ivermectin has a very low affinity for human neurotransmitter systems at therapeutic doses. Therefore, it selectively paralyzes parasites without harming the human host (except in rare genetic cases affecting blood-brain barrier protection).
- Pharmacokinetics Supporting Action
- Absorption: Ivermectin Tablets reaches peak blood levels in about 4 hours.
- Half-life: Around 12–36 hours, allowing sustained effect.
- Excretion: Mostly through feces; a little Ivermectin through urine.
Dose
General Dosing Guidelines
- Dosage is by body weight: typically 150-200 mcg/kg.
- A 12mg tablet is suitable for adults weighing 55-70 kg.
- Taken on an empty stomach with water.
- It may require repeated doses depending on the infection.
Condition-Specific Dosages
- Strongyloidiasis (intestinal threadworm)
- Take 200 mcg/kg orally once.
- Repeat the dose after 2 weeks if symptoms persist.
- Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
- Take 150 mcg/kg orally once.
- Repeat every 6-12 months in endemic areas.
- Scabies
- Take 200 mcg/kg on day 1 and repeat on day 8.
- You may need additional doses on days 1, 2, 8, 9, and 15 for crusted scabies.
- Doctors may combine Ivermectin with topical permethrin.
- Lice (Pediculosis)
- Take 200 mcg/kg orally once.
- Repeat after 7-10 days if necessary.
- Often used with medicated shampoos or lotions.
- Lymphatic Filariasis
- Take 150-200 mcg/kg once yearly.
- Often combined with albendazole or DEC in community treatment programs.
- Cutaneous Larva Migrans
- Take 200 mcg/kg once daily for 1 to 2 days.
Pediatric Use
- Approved for children weighing ≥15 kg.
- Same as adults: 200 mcg/kg.
- Use only under medical supervision.
Elderly Use
- They do not require specific dose adjustments.
- Monitor closely for side effects or drug interactions.
Dosage Estimates by Body Weight
- For 40-60 kg body weight: usually one tablet of 12mg.
- For 61-80 kg: typically 1 to 1.5 tablets (12-18mg).
- For 81-100 kg: 1.5 to 2 tablets (18-24mg).
Precautions
General Precautions
- Use only under medical supervision - Ivermectin Generic should not be self-prescribed or used in veterinary form for human conditions.
- Confirm the correct diagnosis and weight-based dosage before use.
- Avoid overdose - do not exceed the recommended dose, even if symptoms persist.
Use in Children
- Not for children under 15 kg (approximately under 5 years).
- Safety data in younger children is limited.
- Doctors give it to children under medical supervision.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy
- Classified as Pregnancy Category C (risk in animals; no controlled human data).
- Use only if needed and the benefits outweigh potential risks.
Breastfeeding
- Ivermectin gets excreted in small amounts in breast milk.
- Generally considered safe after the first week postpartum, but best used with doctor approval.
Use in the Elderly
- No dose adjustment is usually required.
- Monitor for increased sensitivity, especially for dizziness or drug interactions due to multiple medications.
Neurological Disorders
- Use with caution in people with seizure disorders, Parkinson’s disease, or other nervous system conditions.
- The risk of neurotoxicity increases if the blood-brain barrier is compromised.
Loa Loa Co-infection Risk
- Ivermectin Tablets can cause severe or fatal encephalopathy in people infected with Loa Loa (African eye worm).
- Screening is necessary in West and Central Africa before mass treatment programs.
Liver Function Concerns
- The liver metabolizes Ivermectin.
- Patients with liver disease or impaired liver function should use it cautiously.
- Doctors may recommend Liver function tests for long-term or repeated dosing.
Drug Interaction Precautions
- CYP3A4 enzyme metabolizes Ivermectin
- Avoid use with CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, and erythromycin) as they may increase drug levels.
- Caution with warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Avoid CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, alcohol) as they may enhance sedative effects.
Veterinary Formulations Warning
- Never use veterinary Ivermectin Tablet 12 mg for human treatment.
- Human and animal formulations differ in concentration and inactive ingredients, which can be toxic to people.
Genetic Factors (P-glycoprotein Deficiency)
Rare genetic mutations affecting P-glycoprotein (e.g., MDR1 gene mutation) can allow Ivermectin 12 mg to cross into the brain, increasing the risk of neurotoxicity.
Warnings
- Use Only Under Medical Supervision
- You should never use Ivermectin Tablet 12 mg without a prescription.
- Improper dosing, especially from non-human (veterinary) formulations, can lead to toxicity or death.
- Avoid in Loa Loa Endemic Areas (Brain Risk)
- In patients co-infected with Loa Loa (African eye worm), Ivermectin Generic may cause severe or fatal encephalopathy.
- You may require a screening before treatment in West and Central Africa.
- Not for Early Pregnancy
- Classified as Pregnancy Category C.
- Doctors do not use it in the first trimester unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk.
- Use in pregnancy should always be supervised by a healthcare provider.
- Pediatric Restriction
- Not recommended for children under 15 kg.
- Medical science and research have not yet established safety and efficacy in infants.
- Do Not Use Veterinary Products
- Animal Ivermectin generic products are highly concentrated and may contain dangerous inactive ingredients.
- Human formulations should only be used for treatment.
Other Important Warnings
- Neurological Effects
It may cause dizziness, confusion, ataxia, tremors, or, rarely, seizures.
Use caution in people with:
- Seizure disorders
- Parkinson’s disease
- Compromised blood-brain barrier
- Hepatic Impairment
- The liver metabolizes Ivermectin Tablet 12 mg.
- Patients with liver disease should use Ivermectin cautiously.
- Monitor liver enzymes in long-term or repeat dosing scenarios.
- Drug Interactions
May interact with:
- Warfarin (increases bleeding risk)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, ritonavir, ketoconazole - raise Ivermectin levels)
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) increase sedation.
- Allergic and Immune Reactions
May cause:
- Anaphylaxis
- Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome - rare)
- Mazzotti reaction can occur in onchocerciasis due to parasite die-off:
- Rash, fever, lymph swelling, and joint pain (not an allergy, but an immune response)
- Avoid Driving or Hazardous Activities
- It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision.
- Avoid operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Summary of Key Warnings
- Do not self-medicate
- Avoid it in Loa Loa co-infection, early pregnancy, and small children
- Do not use animal products
- Watch for neurological, hepatic, or allergic issues
- Consult your doctor about other medications
Faqs
- What is Ivermectin 12mg used for?
Ivermectin 12mg is an antiparasitic medicine used to treat various infections caused by parasites such as intestinal worms (Strongyloidiasis), scabies, lice, onchocerciasis (river blindness), lymphatic filariasis, and cutaneous larva migrans.
- Is a prescription required to buy Ivermectin 12mg?
Yes. Ivermectin Generic is a prescription-only medication in most countries. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before use.
- How does Ivermectin 12mg work?
Ivermectin paralyzes and kills parasites by targeting their nervous system. It binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels found in invertebrates, causing the parasite’s paralysis and death.
- How should I take Ivermectin 12mg?
Take Ivermectin tablet on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, ideally 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Dosage depends on body weight and infection type, so always follow your doctor's instructions.
- What are the common side effects of Ivermectin 12mg?
Mild side effects of Ivermectin 12 mg may include dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and skin rash. Serious side effects are rare but may include seizures, allergic reactions, or neurological symptoms in sensitive individuals.
- Who should not take Ivermectin 12mg?
Do not take Ivermectin 12 mg if you are pregnant (especially in the first trimester), are under 15 kg in weight, have a history of neurological disorders, or are allergic to Ivermectin or its ingredients. Always inform your doctor about existing health conditions or medications.
- Is it safe to use veterinary Ivermectin for humans?
No. Veterinary Ivermectin is formulated for animals and may contain dangerous ingredients and incorrect dosages for humans. Only use Ivermectin that is approved for human use.
- How quickly does Ivermectin start working?
Ivermectin Generic begins to work within 4-6 hours, and most people notice symptom improvement within 24-48 hours. Full effectiveness may depend on the type of infection being treated.
- Where can I buy safe and authentic Ivermectin 12mg?
Buy Ivermectin Tablets only from licensed pharmacies or authorized online suppliers. Ensure the product is FDA-approved, authentic, and free of counterfeits, and offers secure payment options and discreet delivery
