Vermectin
Generic Name
Ivermectin
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceutical Co.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| vermectin 6 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication used to treat certain parasitic infections in the body, such as strongyloidiasis of the intestinal tract, onchocerciasis (river blindness), and lymphatic filariasis. It is also used to treat external parasitic infestations like scabies and head lice. Ivermectin belongs to a class of drugs called anthelmintics.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies greatly depending on the condition being treated and patient weight. Typically, a single dose of 0.2 mg/kg orally is used for strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis. For scabies, a single dose of 0.2 mg/kg, repeated in 7-14 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustments are usually necessary for elderly patients, but caution is advised due to potential for decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment as excretion is primarily non-renal.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, usually on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the specific timing and dosage.
Mechanism of Action
Ivermectin binds selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels which occur in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. 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 subsequent paralysis and death of the parasite.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action varies depending on the parasite and infection, generally within days to weeks for therapeutic effects.
Excretion
Excreted almost exclusively in feces, with less than 1% excreted in urine.
Half life
Approximately 12-24 hours (mean 18 hours), varying with individuals.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally; absorption is enhanced by a high-fat meal. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in approximately 4-5 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism via cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any component of the formulation.
- Children weighing less than 15 kg (or as per specific product guidelines).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
CYP3A4 Inducers/Inhibitors
Drugs that induce or inhibit CYP3A4 may alter ivermectin plasma concentrations, though clinical significance is often low.
CNS Depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)
Ivermectin may potentiate the effects of CNS depressants, increasing the risk of drowsiness and dizziness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include rash, edema, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, asthenia, tremor, ataxia, seizures, and coma. Management is primarily supportive, including fluid and electrolyte replacement, respiratory support, and pressor agents if hypotension occurs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts of ivermectin are excreted in human milk; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any component of the formulation.
- Children weighing less than 15 kg (or as per specific product guidelines).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
CYP3A4 Inducers/Inhibitors
Drugs that induce or inhibit CYP3A4 may alter ivermectin plasma concentrations, though clinical significance is often low.
CNS Depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)
Ivermectin may potentiate the effects of CNS depressants, increasing the risk of drowsiness and dizziness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include rash, edema, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, asthenia, tremor, ataxia, seizures, and coma. Management is primarily supportive, including fluid and electrolyte replacement, respiratory support, and pressor agents if hypotension occurs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts of ivermectin are excreted in human milk; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (for specific parasitic infections)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ivermectin has undergone numerous clinical trials for its approved indications. Ongoing trials are investigating its potential role in other parasitic and viral diseases, but results for COVID-19 have been largely inconclusive or negative in large, well-designed studies.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required for most indications. For onchocerciasis, monitoring of microfilarial load may be done.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure accurate diagnosis of parasitic infection before prescribing.
- Dose is weight-based; counsel patients on proper administration.
- Be aware of potential Mazzotti reaction in onchocerciasis patients.
- Not recommended for use in children under 15 kg.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
- Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Ivermectin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infection, especially for conditions like scabies and lice.
- For parasitic infections, follow public health advice for sanitation and clean water.
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