Ivermectin

Ivermectin [∞]

Ivermectin

Alternate Names: Stromectol, Mectizan

Chart of Uses:

Use	Description	Index
Parasitic Infections	Ivermectin is used to treat various parasitic infections such as onchocerciasis (river blindness), strongyloidiasis (intestinal threadworm), and scabies. It works by killing or disabling the parasites
Lice and Scabies	It is commonly used topically for the treatment of head lice and scabies, both of which are caused by parasitic infestations of the skin
Filariasis	Ivermectin is used to treat filariasis, a parasitic infection caused by worms that can lead to lymphatic damage and elephantiasis
Worm Infections	Ivermectin can treat other parasitic worm infections, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms
River Blindness (Onchocerciasis)	Used to treat river blindness, a disease caused by a parasitic worm transmitted by black flies, leading to severe vision impairment

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Warnings:

1. Allergic Reactions: Ivermectin may cause allergic reactions, particularly when used for the treatment of onchocerciasis, due to the release of toxins from dying parasites. Symptoms may include fever, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
2. Neurological Effects: In rare cases, ivermectin can cause neurological side effects, such as dizziness, seizures, and confusion, particularly in individuals with central nervous system (CNS) disorders.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ivermectin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. It is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
4. Liver Impairment: Patients with liver disease may require dose adjustments, as ivermectin is metabolized by the liver.
5. Interactions with Other Medications: Ivermectin can interact with other medications, such as sedatives and anti-seizure drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
6. Overdose Risk: Overdose of ivermectin can lead to severe neurological symptoms, including confusion, drowsiness, and even coma.

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Active Compounds:

1. Ivermectin: The active compound in ivermectin is derived from avermectins, which are a group of anti-parasitic drugs that target the nervous system of parasites. Ivermectin works by binding to the glutamate-gated chloride channels in the cells of parasites, causing paralysis and death of the organism.
2. Avermectins: These compounds are produced by the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis and have a high affinity for the nervous systems of invertebrates, making them effective at killing parasites without being toxic to humans at the recommended doses.

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Natural Sources:

Ivermectin is a synthetic drug; however, it is derived from natural compounds found in soil bacteria. The active compound is based on avermectins, which are naturally produced by the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis. Some other natural remedies may help with parasitic infections, but they are not as widely effective or studied as ivermectin:

1. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem has been used traditionally as a natural treatment for skin conditions like scabies and head lice due to its anti-parasitic properties.
2. Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic has been used for its anti-parasitic effects, particularly in treating intestinal worms, due to its allicin content.
3. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium): Known for its historical use in treating intestinal parasites, particularly in combination with other herbs.
4. Papaya Seeds (Carica papaya): Papaya seeds have been traditionally used as a natural remedy for intestinal parasites, with research suggesting they contain enzymes that aid in digestion and parasite elimination.