Approved Medical Uses of Ivermectin

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication that has received regulatory approval for specific indications in human medicine. Its primary approved uses focus on certain parasitic infections.

Primary Approved Indications

In many countries, including the United States, oral ivermectin is approved for the treatment of:

• Intestinal strongyloidiasis caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis
• Onchocerciasis (river blindness) caused by Onchocerca volvulus

In public health programmes coordinated with the World Health Organization, ivermectin is also widely used in mass drug administration campaigns for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis, often in combination with other medicines.

Additional Established Uses

Under medical supervision, ivermectin has also been used for the treatment of certain forms of scabies and pediculosis (head lice infestation) in specific clinical situations. These uses are guided by clinical guidelines and individual patient assessment.

How Ivermectin Works

Ivermectin acts by binding selectively to glutamate-gated chloride channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This increases the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, leading to hyperpolarisation, paralysis, and death of the parasite.

At recommended doses for approved indications, ivermectin has demonstrated a favourable safety profile in extensive clinical use. Dosage is typically calculated according to body weight, and treatment should only be undertaken under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.