Ivermectin is primarily used to treat parasitic infections in humans and animals. The specific conditions that ivermectin is commonly prescribed for include:
River Blindness (Onchocerciasis):
Ivermectin is a key medication in the treatment and prevention of river blindness, a parasitic disease caused by the filarial worm Onchocerca volvulus, transmitted by blackflies. Regular treatment with ivermectin helps control the spread of the infection.
Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis):
Ivermectin is also used in the control and elimination programs for lymphatic filariasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms that damage the lymphatic system.
Scabies:
Ivermectin is effective in treating infestations of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, which leads to scabies. It is often used when topical treatments are not sufficient.
Head Lice:
Ivermectin is used for the treatment of head lice infestations.Intestinal Parasitic Infections: In some cases, ivermectin may be used to treat certain intestinal parasitic infections, although its use for this purpose is less common compared to other medications.