Generic
Ivermectin topical
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Ivermectin topical lotion is used for the treatment of head lice infestations in patients 6 months of age and older.
Description
Ivermectin, a member of the avermectin class, causes death of parasites, primarily through binding selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride channels, which occur in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This leads to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions with hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell, resulting in paralysis and death of the parasite.
Indications
- Head lice infestations - in patients 6 months of age and older
Therapeutic class
Miscellaneous topical agents
Pharmacological class
Topical Antiparasitic (Avermectin)
Pharmacology
Ivermectin, a member of the avermectin class, causes death of parasites, primarily through binding selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride channels, which occur in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This leads to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions with hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell, resulting in paralysis and death of the parasite.
Mechanism of action
Binds to chloride channels in parasite nerve and muscle cells to cause hyperpolarization, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite.
Dosage
Adult and Child Dose (Topical):
- Apply sufficient amount (up to 1 tube) to dry hair and scalp
- Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse off with water
- Tube is intended for single use; discard any unused portion
Child Dose: For patients 6 months and older; safety and efficacy not established in patients under 6 months
Administration
For topical use only (scalp and hair); avoid contact with eyes; hair and scalp must be completely dry before application; apply directly to dry hair and scalp; completely cover entire head; leave for 10 minutes; rinse with water only; wash hands after application.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, please consult your doctor.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Conjunctivitis
- Ocular hyperemia
- Eye irritation
- Dandruff
- Dry skin
- Skin burning sensation
- Application site burning
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- Accidental ingestion in pediatric patients may occur; administer only under direct adult supervision
- Tips to prevent spreading of lice: Avoid direct head-to-head contact; do not share combs, brushes, hats, towels; check everyone in family after one week
- Avoid contact with eyes
Contraindications
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to any component
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions known (topical use).
Food interactions
Food Interactions: It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Ivermectin topical.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Category C; no adequate studies in pregnant women; use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Following oral administration, Ivermectin is excreted in human milk in low concentrations; not evaluated following topical administration; caution required.
Pediatric use
For patients 6 months and older; safety and efficacy not established in patients under 6 months.
Geriatric use
No specific data for elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No information on overdose (topical use); avoid accidental ingestion.
Storage conditions
Keep away from light & wet place; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Ivermectin Topical