ivermectin
Last reviewed 01/2018
- a potent anthelmintic with a broad spectrum of activity against nematodes
- well absorbed in the blood following oral administration
- excreted almost entirely in the faeces
- causes muscle paralysis in parasites via effects on ion-channels in cell membranes
- his is the drug of choice for the treatment of onchocerciasis.
- A single oral dose of 150 mcg/kg results in a prolonged reduction in filarial levels. Because the long-lived adults are not killed, retreatment at intervals of 6-12 months may be required for several years
- adverse effects to treatment with invermectin are generally slight and usually take the form of temporary aggravation of itching and rash