Stromectol patient information leaflet

Stromectol is a prescription medication that is used to treat certain parasitic infections caused by worms. It is usually prescribed for conditions such as river blindness and strongyloidiasis. This patient leaflet provides important information about the medication, including its uses, dosage, side effects, and precautions.

Uses: Stromectol is primarily used to treat river blindness, a disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blackflies. It is also effective in treating strongyloidiasis, which is a type of roundworm infection. The medication works by killing the parasites and preventing them from multiplying in the body.

Dosage: The dosage of Stromectol depends on the condition being treated and the weight of the patient. It is usually taken as a single dose or as multiple doses over a period of time. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist to ensure the medication is effective and safe.

Side effects: Like any medication, Stromectol can cause side effects. The most common side effects include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic reactions or liver problems. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions: There are some precautions that should be taken when using Stromectol. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the medication may have harmful effects on the unborn baby or the nursing infant. It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as they may interact with Stromectol and cause unwanted side effects.

Stromectol is a powerful medication that should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and take the medication as directed to ensure its effectiveness and safety. If you have any questions or concerns about Stromectol, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What is Stromectol?

Stromectol is a medication that is used to treat certain parasitic infections in the body. It contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which works by paralyzing and killing the parasites or worms. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as river blindness, strongyloidiasis, and scabies.

River blindness: This is a disease caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, which is transmitted through the bites of infected black flies. Stromectol helps to kill the larvae of the worm and prevent further damage to the eyes and skin.

Strongyloidiasis: This is an infection caused by the parasitic worm Strongyloides stercoralis, which is usually found in tropical and subtropical regions. Stromectol works by killing the adult worms in the intestines and preventing the larvae from maturing.

Scabies: This is an infestation of the skin by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It causes intense itching and a rash. Stromectol helps to kill the mites and their eggs, providing relief from symptoms.

Stromectol is available in tablet form and should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is properly cleared.

Key facts about the medication

Stromectol is a medication that is used to treat certain parasitic infections. It contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which works by killing the parasites and their larvae. This medication is commonly used to treat infections caused by certain types of worms, such as river blindness and intestinal strongyloidiasis.

Usage: Stromectol should be taken as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken orally with or without food. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the type of infection being treated. It is important to complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better before the medication is finished.

Side effects: Like all medications, Stromectol can cause side effects. Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and itching. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Precautions: Before taking Stromectol, it is important to inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, as well as any other medications or supplements you are taking. Stromectol may interact with certain medications, so it is important to discuss this with your doctor to avoid any potential complications.

Warnings: Stromectol should not be used in certain situations, such as in pregnant or breastfeeding women, or in individuals with a known allergy to ivermectin. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of taking this medication with your doctor before starting treatment.

How does Stromectol work?

Stromectol is an effective medication used for the treatment of certain parasitic infections. It contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which belongs to a class of drugs called anthelmintics.

Anthelmintics work by targeting the nervous system of parasites, causing paralysis and ultimately death. Ivermectin specifically acts on the glutamate-gated chloride channels found in invertebrates, such as parasites. These channels are essential for the proper functioning of their nervous system.

When Stromectol is ingested, ivermectin is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. It then reaches the target parasites and binds to the glutamate-gated chloride channels. This leads to an increase in the chloride ion conductance, resulting in hyperpolarization of the parasite's cell membrane.

The hyperpolarization of the cell membrane leads to an inhibition of neuronal signal transmission, ultimately causing paralysis and death of the parasites. This action is specific to parasites and does not affect humans, as humans do not have the same type of glutamate-gated chloride channels.

Stromectol is effective against a wide range of parasites, including threadworms, scabies mites, and certain types of lice. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and treatment duration to ensure successful eradication of the parasites.

Mechanism of action

Stromectol, also known as ivermectin, exerts its primary pharmacological effect by binding to specific receptors on nervous and muscle cells of parasites. This binding interferes with the normal function of the parasites, leading to paralysis and death.

The specific target of ivermectin is the glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCls) found in invertebrates, including parasites. These channels play a crucial role in the regulation of the nervous system and muscle function. Ivermectin binds to the GluCls and enhances the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that regulates the excitability of neurons. As a result, the activity of the nervous system in parasites is suppressed, leading to paralysis and death.

This mechanism of action is particularly effective against nematodes and ectoparasites, such as lice and mites, that depend on glutamate-gated chloride channels for their normal physiological processes. However, it is worth noting that ivermectin has limited activity against parasites that do not possess these specific receptors.

In addition to its effect on GluCls, ivermectin also has other pharmacological properties that contribute to its efficacy against certain parasites. It can disrupt the reproductive processes of parasites by inhibiting the synthesis of eggs and interfere with the molting process, preventing the development of larvae into adult parasites. Furthermore, ivermectin can modulate the immune response, enhancing the natural defense mechanisms of the host against certain parasites.

In summary, Stromectol's mechanism of action involves binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in parasites, leading to paralysis and death. Its ability to disrupt reproductive processes and modulate the immune response also contributes to its efficacy against specific parasites.

Who can take Stromectol?

Stromectol is a medication that is typically prescribed to treat individuals who are infected with certain parasites, such as head lice or river blindness. However, not everyone can take Stromectol, and it is important to be aware of the contraindications and precautions before starting this medication.

Contraindications

Stromectol should not be taken by individuals who have a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in the medication. It is also contraindicated in individuals who have a history of liver disease or have elevated liver enzymes.

Precautions

Before taking Stromectol, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, including kidney problems, asthma, or HIV/AIDS. Additionally, some medications may interact with Stromectol, so it is important to disclose all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking Stromectol with your healthcare provider. It is also recommended to use effective birth control methods while taking this medication.

Stromectol is not recommended for children under the age of five or weighing less than 15 kilograms. Dosage and administration may vary depending on the specific condition being treated, so it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Overall, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking Stromectol to determine if it is the right medication for you and to ensure its safe and effective use.

Eligibility and contraindications

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for Stromectol treatment, patients must meet certain criteria. Stromectol is generally prescribed for the treatment of certain parasitic infections, such as river blindness and scabies. It is not typically used as a preventive measure. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if Stromectol is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Contraindications

There are certain contraindications that should be considered before starting Stromectol treatment. Patients who are allergic to ivermectin, the active ingredient in Stromectol, should not take this medication. Additionally, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking, as they may interact with Stromectol and cause adverse effects.

Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should also exercise caution when considering Stromectol treatment. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before initiating treatment.

Patients with severe liver disease may require dosage adjustments or should avoid taking Stromectol altogether. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, as they may affect the suitability of Stromectol as a treatment option.

Lastly, it is important to note that Stromectol is not approved for use in children under the age of 5 years old. The safety and efficacy of Stromectol in pediatric populations have not been fully established.

What are the possible side effects?

Stromectol may cause some side effects, although not everyone gets them. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if any of the following side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately:

• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea after taking Stromectol. If this occurs, it is recommended to take the medication with food to help alleviate the symptoms.
• Dizziness: Dizziness can occur as a side effect of Stromectol. It is important to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, if you experience dizziness.
• Headache: Headaches can occur while taking Stromectol. If you experience severe or persistent headaches, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
• Diarrhea: Some patients may experience diarrhea as a side effect of Stromectol. It is important to stay hydrated and consult a doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe or does not improve.
• Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain or cramping can occur while taking Stromectol. If the pain is severe or persistent, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

These are not all the possible side effects of Stromectol. If you experience any other unusual or severe side effects, or if you have any concerns about the medication, it is important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further information and guidance.

Common and rare side effects

Common side effects

While taking Stromectol, some patients may experience common side effects. These side effects are typically mild and may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting

If you experience any of these common side effects, they usually resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it is important to consult your doctor.

Rare side effects

In rare cases, patients may experience more serious side effects while taking Stromectol. These side effects are uncommon and may include:

1. Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or hives
2. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
3. Difficulty breathing or swallowing
4. Fainting or lightheadedness
5. Severe dizziness
6. Persistent or severe headache

If you experience any of these rare side effects, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. These side effects may indicate a severe allergic reaction or other serious medical condition.

It is important to note that this is not a complete list of side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about potential side effects, be sure to consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

 

 

Follow us on Twitter @Pharmaceuticals #Pharmacy
Subscribe on YouTube @PharmaceuticalsYouTube