Ivermectin has gained a lot of attention in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, its history as a medicine dates back to the late 1970s, and it has been a game-changer in the treatment of various parasitic infections. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it one of the most essential drugs globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). But what exactly does ivermectin treat in humans, and how does it work? In this article, we will explore the many uses of this medication and why it has earned its reputation.
What is Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication that was first discovered in 1975 and came into medical use in 1981. It works by paralyzing and killing the parasites that invade the human body. Initially, it was used primarily in veterinary medicine to treat parasitic infections in animals. Over time, it was found to be effective in humans for the treatment of a variety of conditions.
How Does Ivermectin Work?
Buy ivermectin online that kills parasites by attaching itself to certain proteins in their nervous systems. It does not have the same effect on humans because our nervous systems are different from those of parasites. This makes ivermectin a highly effective treatment with minimal side effects for most people.
The Major Uses of Ivermectin in Humans
1. Onchocerciasis (River Blindness)
One of the most well-known uses of ivermectin is the treatment of onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness. This parasitic infection is caused by the Onchocerca volvulus worm, which is transmitted through the bite of infected blackflies. It affects millions of people, primarily in Africa and Latin America.
Symptoms of river blindness include severe itching, skin rashes, and in the worst cases, blindness. Ivermectin is used as a part of mass drug administration programs in endemic areas, where it effectively reduces the parasite load and helps control the spread of the disease.
By killing the immature worms (microfilariae) circulating in the blood, ivermectin prevents the development of adult worms, stopping the progression of the disease and preventing blindness.
2. Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis)
Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is another parasitic disease treated with ivermectin. It is caused by thread-like worms that invade the lymphatic system, causing swelling and damage to the lymphatic vessels. This can lead to severe and disfiguring swelling of the legs, arms, or genitals.
Ivermectin is typically used in combination with other medications, such as albendazole, in mass drug administration programs to stop the spread of the disease. The drug kills the microfilariae, preventing the worms from reproducing and reducing symptoms in infected individuals.
3. Strongyloidiasis
Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides stercoralis, a type of roundworm that enters the human body through the skin, often when people walk barefoot on contaminated soil. Once inside the body, the larvae can migrate to the intestines, causing gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
In severe cases, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, the infection can become life-threatening. Ivermectin is highly effective in treating strongyloidiasis by killing the larvae and adult worms, alleviating symptoms, and preventing the infection from spreading.
4. Scabies
Tiny mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei are the source of the extremely contagious skin disease scabies. These mites burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, redness, and a rash. Scabies spreads easily through close physical contact and can affect anyone, regardless of age or hygiene.
Ivermectin is used to treat scabies, especially in cases where topical treatments like permethrin cream have failed or when the infection is widespread. It is often prescribed as an oral medication, with patients taking one or two doses depending on the severity of the infection. Ivermectin helps by killing the mites and reducing the symptoms of itching and discomfort.
5. Head Lice
Infestations of head lice are frequent, particularly in school-age children. While over-the-counter treatments like permethrin and malathion are usually effective, some strains of lice have become resistant to these treatments.
In such cases, ivermectin can be used as an alternative treatment. It is available in both oral and topical forms and works by killing the lice and their eggs. One of the advantages of ivermectin is that it usually requires only one treatment, making it more convenient for patients.
6. Rosacea
Rosacea is a long-term skin ailment that results in facial redness and inflammation. While the exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, it is believed that a type of mite called Demodex may contribute to the condition.
Ivermectin has been found to be effective in treating rosacea by reducing the number of Demodex mites on the skin. Topical ivermectin creams are commonly prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe rosacea, helping to reduce redness, inflammation, and the appearance of pustules.
Controversial Uses: Ivermectin and COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, ivermectin gained widespread attention as a potential treatment for the virus. Early studies and anecdotal reports suggested that it might have antiviral properties and could help reduce the severity of the disease. However, the use of ivermectin for COVID-19 has been highly controversial, with major health organizations such as the WHO and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advising against its use outside of clinical trials.
As of now, the scientific evidence supporting ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19 remains inconclusive. Several studies have shown no significant benefit in using the drug to treat COVID-19, while others have suggested that it may be useful in certain cases. Research is ongoing, and until more conclusive results are available, ivermectin should not be used as a primary treatment for COVID-19.
The Safety and Side Effects of Ivermectin
When taken according to prescription, ivermectin is usually regarded as safe. But like any medication, some people may experience negative effects from it. Common side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
More serious side effects, like allergic responses or low blood pressure, can occasionally happen. It is essential to take ivermectin under the supervision of a healthcare provider, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or other underlying health conditions.
Conclusion: A Life-Saving Drug with Multiple Uses
Ivermectin is a powerful and versatile medication that has saved countless lives by treating a wide range of parasitic infections. From river blindness to scabies, its effectiveness in controlling diseases that affect millions of people worldwide cannot be overstated. While it has gained attention in the fight against COVID-19, the scientific evidence supporting its use for this purpose remains limited and controversial.
For now, ivermectin continues to be an essential tool in global health for the treatment of parasitic infections. Its low cost, wide availability, and minimal side effects make it a valuable resource in the fight against neglected tropical diseases. If you suspect you have a parasitic infection or another condition that ivermectin can treat, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
In summary, ivermectin’s ability to treat various parasitic infections has established it as a crucial medication for both individual and public health. Though its use in COVID-19 remains under debate, there is no doubt that ivermectin plays a vital role in improving human health across the globe.
