Ivermec Tablets USP 3mg: A Potent Anthelmintic Agent

Composition:

Each tablet of Ivermec USP 3mg contains 3mg of Ivermectin USP.

Description:

Ivermec (Ivermectin) is a semisynthetic anthelmintic agent administered orally. Derived from the avermectins, a class of potent broad-spectrum anti-parasitic agents isolated from Streptomyces avermitilis fermentation products.

Clinical Pharmacology:

Mechanism of Action: Ivermectin, a part of the avermectin class, selectively binds to gluta mate-gated chloride ion channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This binding increases cell membrane permeability to chloride ions, leading to parasite paralysis and death. It may interact with other ligand-gated chloride channels.

Pharmacodynamics:

Avermectins exhibit specificity due to the absence of glutamate-gated chloride channels in some mammals and their low affinity for mammalian ligand-gated chloride channels. Ivermectin has limited ability to cross the human blood-brain barrier and is effective against various nematodes, excluding adult Onchocerca volvulus.

Pharmacokinetics:

Upon oral intake, plasma Ivermectin concentrations correlate with dosage. Metabolism mainly occurs in the liver, with both Ivermectin and its metabolites primarily excreted in feces over about 12 days. Less than 1% is excreted in urine, with an approximate 18-hour plasma half-life.

Indications and Usage:

Ivermectin is indicated for treating:

• Strongyloidiasis of the intestinal tract
• Onchocerciasis

Contraindications:

Patients hypersensitive to any component of the product should not use Ivermectin.

Interactions:

Co-administration with warfarin may increase International Normalized Ratio (INR) based on post-marketing reports.

Use in Specific Populations:

• Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category C – avoid use.
• Nursing mothers should exercise caution as Ivermectin excretes in low concentrations in human milk.
• Pediatric Use: Safety in pediatric patients <15 kg not established.
• Geriatric Use: Caution in elderly due to potential decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function.
• Strongyloidiasis in Immunocompromised Hosts: Administer cautiously to immunocompromised patients.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Ivermec (Ivermectin) Tablets USP 3mg effectively treats Strongyloidiasis and Onchocerciasis. However, its usage requires careful consideration due to specific populations, potential drug interactions, and contraindications for safe and effective use.