What is ivermectin for humans called?
Ivermectin is the generic name for an antiparasitic medication that comes in various formulations for human use, each with its own brand name. The most well-known brand names include Stromectol for oral tablets, and Soolantra and Sklice for topical applications. While the generic ivermectin is often prescribed, the specific brand name depends on the type of infection being treated and the route of administration.
It is crucial to understand that veterinary ivermectin formulations are different from those approved for human use. Animal products are often highly concentrated and not tested for safety in humans, making them dangerous for consumption. The proper, safe use of ivermectin requires a prescription from a healthcare provider who can determine the correct approach and formulation for your specific medical condition.
Oral ivermectin: Stromectol and its uses
The primary human-grade oral ivermectin tablet is sold under the brand name Stromectol. It is FDA-approved for treating infections caused by certain parasitic worms. The main approved uses for oral Stromectol include:
- Intestinal Strongyloidiasis: An infection caused by the parasitic roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis.
- Onchocerciasis (River Blindness): A disease caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus, transmitted by blackflies.
Oral ivermectin has also been used “off-label,” or for an unapproved purpose, to treat other conditions under a doctor’s supervision. Examples include:
- Scabies: An infestation of the skin by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.
Topical ivermectin: Soolantra and Sklice
In addition to oral tablets, ivermectin is also available in topical forms, which are applied directly to the skin for specific conditions.
- Soolantra (Topical Cream): This is a 1% ivermectin cream primarily used to treat rosacea, an inflammatory skin condition that causes redness and pimple-like bumps on the face.
- Sklice (Topical Lotion): This 0.5% ivermectin lotion is approved to treat head lice infestations.
Mechanism of action and administration
Ivermectin works by interfering with the nerve and muscle cells of certain parasites. It binds selectively to glutamate-gated chloride channels, which are essential for the normal function of these invertebrate organisms. This binding increases the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, leading to hyperpolarization and ultimately paralysis and death of the parasite.
Importantly, this mechanism is generally safe for humans because mammals do not have these specific glutamate-gated chloride channels. Additionally, in humans, ivermectin does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, which further limits the risk of neurological side effects.
Administration methods vary depending on the condition being treated:
- Oral tablets are usually taken on an empty stomach with water.
- For strongyloidiasis, a single dose is often sufficient, but a follow-up stool examination is performed to ensure the infection is gone.
- For river blindness, repeat treatments may be necessary because the medication kills the immature worms but not the adults.
- Topical applications have their own specific instructions, such as applying Sklice lotion to dry hair and scalp.
Comparison of ivermectin formulations for human use
Feature | Stromectol (Oral Tablet) | Soolantra (Topical Cream) | Sklice (Topical Lotion) |
---|---|---|---|
Primary Use | Intestinal Strongyloidiasis, Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) | Rosacea (Inflammatory skin condition) | Head Lice (Pediculosis) |
Active Ingredient | Ivermectin | Ivermectin (1%) | Ivermectin (0.5%) |
Mode of Action | Kills parasitic worms by affecting nerve and muscle function | Reduces inflammation and kills mites on the skin | Kills lice and their eggs |
Administration | Taken by mouth, typically on an empty stomach | Applied as a thin layer to the affected skin | Applied to dry hair and scalp |
Key Consideration | Administration is typically based on factors determined by a healthcare provider; repeat doses may be needed for certain conditions | Requires specific application to affected areas, as directed by a doctor | Follow specific instructions for application time and rinsing; may need repeat application |
Status | Prescription only | Prescription only | Prescription and some OTC options may be available |
Important safety information and misuse concerns
Despite its documented safety and effectiveness for specific conditions, ivermectin became a subject of controversy during the COVID-19 pandemic due to misinformation about its use as a treatment. Health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), explicitly state that ivermectin is not approved to prevent or treat COVID-19. The misuse of ivermectin, particularly self-medicating with products intended for animals, led to an increase in calls to poison control centers and hospitalizations with serious side effects.
Potential side effects of human-grade ivermectin, especially when not used as prescribed, can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, low blood pressure, seizures, and other neurological issues. A severe allergic reaction, known as a Mazzotti reaction, can occur in patients with river blindness due to the mass die-off of parasites. It is essential to only take ivermectin under the guidance of a healthcare professional and never use veterinary products on humans.
Conclusion
In summary, the name for ivermectin for humans depends on the form and use, with Stromectol being the brand name for the oral tablet used for specific parasitic worm infections. Topical versions like Soolantra and Sklice treat rosacea and head lice, respectively. All human formulations of ivermectin require a prescription and should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider. The safety and effectiveness of this medication are well-established for its approved purposes, but it is not a treatment for viral infections like COVID-19 and should never be sourced from veterinary supplies. For safe and effective treatment, always consult a qualified medical professional.
For more information on the proper use and risks associated with ivermectin, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's official guidance on the topic.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.