Meds belonging to a genre called antiparasitic drugs are known to stall growth of a few parasites; these meds help halt them from multiplying or growing. Such drugs are widely used to treat risks of parasitic invasions. You can get these meds as pills or creams. Some are also available as IV-based injections. Ivermectin is one of the antiparasitic meds used for a range of conditions. Can you use ivermectin for scabies? It is essential to know more.
Risks of parasitic infections affects a large number of people. As per a few reliable estimates, nearly 1.8 billion are affected with each passing year. Antiparasitic drugs help limit parasites from growing, and some meds care capable of destroying harmful parasites. Drugs are sold in drugstores for treating worms and helminths; these meds are also labelled as anti-helminths.
There are many conditions that parasites cause; of these, a condition known as river blindness is triggered by growth of worms in the human body. Typical symptoms of this condition are formation of lumps below the epidermis i.e., skin’s top surface, itchy skin, loss of sense of vision, etc. If left untreated, river blindness can lead to permanent loss of vision.
So, what is ivermectin?
This is an antiparasitic drug, discovered in mid-part of 1970s. This med initially was administered for veterinary care purpose. In the latter half of 1980s – this med was authorised for human use. Active chemicals of this antiparasitic agent disrupt the nervous system and muscles of invertebrates like worms. Worms such as roundworms are destroyed with the use of ivermectin. You can get ivermectin as a tablet – orally administered, and also as an ointment. Cream / ointment version of this med is used for treating various skin conditions caused by worms.
Ivermectin
Medications such as ivermectin are more effective against parasites such as roundworms. Such helminths are known for their hyperflexible mechanisms to stay alive. These can live in any extreme situations; for instance, they can thrive in fresh water like waters of rivers and in brine waters like in seas. You may see them live on earth. These small worms are relatively thinner than many other helminths. There are a few larger forms of this worm growing to 1 meter or more than three feet. Smallest variants of these species can be observed only with the help of a microscope.
Ivermectin for scabies dosage for humans
Scabies is a skin condition wherein an infection caused by parasite(s) causes irritation of skin. This is known to occur due to unhealthy sanitary practices, living in overcrowded places, etc. Yes, ivermectin can be used for scabies – among both men and women. Tablet form of ivermectin is administered if lotion or the ointment form does not help.
Ivermectin for scabies is offered if you have a compromised system of immunity or if scabies has led to crusting of skin. However, ivermectin is not recommended if you are pregnant. Those who are planning to get pregnant must inform about their medical condition to the caregiving team.
Ivermectin for scabies dosage for humans is 0.2 milligrams per kg of body weight. This dosage is given as a single dose, and then repeated after a span of 15 days.
Safety measures to stay aware of if you use ivermectin
Ivermectin is tolerated quite well. In general, it may not trigger serious side effects or undesired outcomes. Some users have developed a few adverse effects like dryness of skin, skin irritation, itchiness, etc. Good news is: almost all these effects are temporary discomforts.
Medical research is underway to assess the remedial outcomes of ivermectin among teens and children. If you are interested to know more about use of ivermectin for scabies, it is a good practice to consult with a dermatologist. Lastly, ivermectin is not an over the counter i.e., OTC medication. It is always taken under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Bachelor’s in Exercise Science from the University of Texas at Austin. Experience: 8 years of writing experience focusing on fitness, strength training, and cardiovascular health for multiple online fitness magazines and blogs.
