Ivermectin is a Food and Drug Administration-approved antiparasitic drug that is commonly used for certain parasitic infections such as strongyloidiasis intestinalis, river blindness (onchocerciasis), and persistent cases of scabies. Ivermectin acts by selectively targeting glutamate-gated chloride channels found in nerve and muscle cells of parasites to bring about paralysis and death of the parasite without damaging human cells. To achieve maximum absorption, oral tablets are recommended to be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water; also, a repeat dose is normally administered after 7 to 14 days by the physician since ivermectin only kills mature parasites but not eggs. It is usually well-tolerated; however, short-term side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, or transient skin itchiness caused by dead parasites. Make sure to take the drug only according to your physician’s prescription and not to take any non-human form of the drug.
How does oral Ivermectin work, and what should you expect?
