Ivermectin: pharmacology and application in dermatology

Int J Dermatol. 2005 Dec;44(12):981-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2004.02253.x.

Abstract

Ivermectin is a synthetic derivative of the antiparasitic class of compounds known as avermectins. It is a macrolide endectocide with activity against both endoparasites with cutaneous tropism (Strongyloides stercoralis, Ancylostoma braziliense, Cochliomyia hominivorax, Dermatobia hominis, Filaria bancrofti, Wucheria malayi, Onchocerca volvulus, Loa-loa) and ectoparasites such as Sarcoptes scabies, Pediculus humanus, Demodex folliculorum, and Cheyletiella sp. Ivermectin is of great interest in the treatment of patients with different forms of scabies, head lice, demodecidosis, cutaneous larva migrans, cutaneous larva currens, myiasis, and filariasis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiparasitic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antiparasitic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Ivermectin / pharmacology
  • Ivermectin / therapeutic use*
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin / parasitology
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Diseases, Parasitic / therapy*

Substances

  • Antiparasitic Agents
  • Ivermectin