What is the brand name for human ivermectin?
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication available in both generic and several brand-name forms, each prescribed for specific conditions. The brand name for the human oral tablet form is Stromectol. For topical applications, different brand names are used depending on the formulation, including Sklice (lotion) for head lice and Soolantra (cream) for rosacea. Merck Sharp and Dohme Corp. developed and produces Stromectol, which was approved by the FDA in 1996 for treating certain parasitic worm infections.
Stromectol: The oral ivermectin brand
Stromectol is the brand name for the oral tablet form of ivermectin prescribed to humans. It is specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating two parasitic worm infections:
- Intestinal strongyloidiasis, caused by the parasite Strongyloides stercoralis.
- Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus. In some cases, ivermectin tablets are also prescribed off-label by healthcare professionals to treat other conditions, such as scabies. When taking the oral tablet, it is typically recommended to be taken on an empty stomach with water to ensure proper absorption.
Topical ivermectin brands: Sklice and Soolantra
For external parasites and skin conditions, ivermectin comes in topical formulations under different brand names:
- Sklice: This is a topical lotion containing ivermectin that is FDA-approved for treating head lice. Sklice lotion works by paralyzing and killing the lice. Unlike oral tablets, Sklice lotion does not require a prescription and is available over-the-counter.
- Soolantra: This brand is a topical cream formulated with ivermectin for treating the inflammatory lesions (pimples and bumps) associated with rosacea. It has both anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic properties that help manage the condition.
Generic vs. Brand-Name Ivermectin
Generic ivermectin offers a more affordable alternative to the brand-name versions while maintaining the same active ingredients and efficacy. The key difference lies in the cost, as generic medications are typically less expensive. The FDA regulates and tests generic drugs to ensure they meet the same rigorous safety, quality, and effectiveness standards as their brand-name counterparts. For oral ivermectin, the generic is simply labeled "ivermectin" and is available from multiple manufacturers, whereas Stromectol is specifically manufactured by Merck.
Comparison of Human Ivermectin Products
| Feature | Stromectol | Sklice | Soolantra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formulation | Oral tablet | Topical lotion | Topical cream |
| Primary Uses | Intestinal strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis | Head lice | Rosacea |
| Prescription Required | Yes | No (OTC) | Yes |
| Manufacturer | Merck Sharp and Dohme LLC | Multiple manufacturers | Galderma |
| Mechanism | Paralyzes and kills parasites | Paralyzes and kills lice | Anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic properties |
| Administration | Single or repeated oral dose on an empty stomach | One-time topical application to hair | Daily topical application to the skin |
Critical Safety Information
It is crucial for patients to only use ivermectin as prescribed by a healthcare provider for its FDA-approved indications. Misuse of this medication, particularly for unproven conditions like COVID-19, has been strongly advised against by health authorities including the FDA and the American Medical Association. Using animal-grade ivermectin is particularly dangerous for humans, as the formulations and concentrations differ significantly and can lead to severe side effects and toxicity. Potential side effects of ivermectin can range from mild issues like nausea and dizziness to more serious conditions, and medical advice should always be sought for any concerns.
Conclusion
In summary, while ivermectin is the generic name for the active ingredient, several brand names exist for human use. The oral tablet is known as Stromectol and is used for specific parasitic worm infections. Topical formulations include Sklice for head lice and Soolantra for rosacea. The choice of medication, whether brand or generic, should always be guided by a licensed healthcare professional to ensure it is the appropriate treatment and dosage for the patient's condition. Responsible use according to medical guidance is essential for effectiveness and safety. For more details on this topic, consult the information from reputable sources like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
