Ivermectin
Ivermectin
Ivermectin (/aɪvərˈmɛktɪn/) is a medication used to treat many types of parasite infestations. This includes head lice, scabies, river blindness (onchocerciasis), strongyloidiasis, trichuriasis, and lymphatic filariasis. It can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin for external infestations.
Etymology
The term "Ivermectin" is derived from the elements "Iver" and "mectin". "Iver" is a reference to the drug's original manufacturer, Merck's Ivermectin laboratory. "Mectin" is a common suffix for macrocyclic lactone anthelmintics, a class of drugs to which Ivermectin belongs.
Usage
Ivermectin is used in humans, dogs, and cats for the treatment of a variety of parasite infestations. It is also used in veterinary medicine to prevent and treat heartworm and acariasis, among other parasitic infestations.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Ivermectin include red eyes, dry skin, and burning skin. It is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience more serious side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
Related Terms
- Anthelmintic: A type of drug that expels parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body by either stunning or killing them.
- Macrocyclic lactone: A class of drugs that includes Ivermectin. They are used to treat a variety of parasitic diseases.
- Parasitosis: A condition where a person is infected with parasites.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ivermectin
- Wikipedia's article - Ivermectin
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