Medicine Information

Imectin

Name: Imectin
Brand: Imectin
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet6 mgAnthelmintic; Anti-parasiticATC: P02CF01

Generic Name

Ivermectin

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
imectin 6 mg tablet	৳ 8.00	৳ 80.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication used to treat certain parasitic infections of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and eyes. It is effective against conditions like strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, and scabies.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of intestinal strongyloidiasis (threadworm)

Treatment of onchocerciasis (river blindness)

Treatment of lymphatic filariasis

Treatment of scabies (sarcoptes scabiei)

Dosage

Adults

Strongyloidiasis: 200 mcg/kg as a single oral dose. Onchocerciasis: 150 mcg/kg as a single oral dose, repeated every 3-12 months. Scabies: 200 mcg/kg as a single oral dose, may be repeated after 7-14 days.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution should be exercised due to potential age-related decrease in renal or hepatic function.

Renal_impairment

No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment as data is limited.

How to Take

Take the tablet orally with water, usually on an empty stomach, or as directed by your doctor. For better absorption, it is sometimes advised to take it with food.

Mechanism of Action

Ivermectin binds selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels which occur in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells of parasites. This leads to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, resulting in hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell, and ultimately paralysis and death of the parasite.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Varies by indication, typically within days to weeks for parasitic clearance.

Excretion

Excreted almost exclusively in feces within 12 days, with less than 1% excreted in urine.

Half life

Approximately 12-18 hours.

Absorption

Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; peak plasma concentrations reached approximately 4 hours after oral administration.

Metabolism

Primarily hepatic, by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to Ivermectin or any component of the formulation.
Patients with impaired blood-brain barrier (e.g., meningitis) as it may increase CNS side effects.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

May increase INR/prothrombin time; monitor coagulation parameters.

CNS Depressants

Theoretically may enhance CNS depressant effects, though generally less concern with single doses.

Other P-glycoprotein modulators

Potential for altered Ivermectin levels.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include rash, edema, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rarely, seizures or coma. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including fluid and electrolyte replacement, respiratory support, and management of hypotension and seizures.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts are excreted in human milk; avoid breastfeeding for at least 24 hours after treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 tablet4 tablets

Shelf Life

24 months

Availability

Available in pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)

Patent Status

Off-patent (Generic available)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established Ivermectin's efficacy and safety for its approved parasitic indications since the 1980s. Ongoing research explores other potential uses.

Lab Monitoring

Routine lab monitoring is not typically required for single-dose Ivermectin treatment. However, liver function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.

Doctor Notes

Confirm parasitic infection diagnosis before prescribing.
Educate patients on proper administration and potential side effects.
Monitor patients for neurological symptoms, especially in co-existing conditions that compromise the blood-brain barrier.

Patient Guidelines

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
Report any severe side effects or unusual symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

Since Ivermectin is often taken as a single dose or a limited number of doses, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

Ivermectin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain good hygiene practices, especially for conditions like scabies, to prevent re-infection or spread.
For parasitic infections, follow public health advice on sanitation and prevention.