Ivermectin Uses for Humans and Animals
Approved for human use in 1987, ivermectin is a medication that comes in ingestible and topical forms. Historically, it’s been prescribed by physicians to treat certain types of parasitic diseases in underdeveloped countries. A compounding pharmacy, like HB Pharmacy, can create a customized preparation to meet unique patient needs. For humans, this includes:
- Strongyloidiasis: This intestinal disease causes symptoms like pain, heartburn, diarrhea, rashes, and bloating.
- Onchocerciasis: Also known as river blindness, this condition causes eye disease, an itchy rash, and abnormal growths beneath the skin.
- Head lice: Tiny, parasitic insects that often affect young children, lice thrive on the human scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
- Rosacea: This common skin condition causes a flushed appearance and visible blood vessels on the face.
- Scabies: Caused by tiny, burrowing mites, scabies is a contagious condition that presents as an itchy skin rash.
- Trichuriasis (whipworm infection): Ranging in symptoms and severity, these parasites live in the intestine and cause intestinal disease.
- Ascariasis (roundworm infection): This infection ranges in symptoms and may affect the lungs or intestines.
- Lymphatic filariasis: This condition is caused by microscopic, thread-like worms that live in the lymph system.
Ivermectin has also been recommended by veterinarians for some diseases in pets and livestock. This medication is used to treat mites, intestinal parasites, and other conditions in cats and dogs, such as:
- Demodectic mange
- Scabies
- Ear mites
- Hookworm
- Roundworm
- Capillaria
For animals, this medication is available in tablet, chewable, topical liquid, and injectable forms. It’s also commonly used as a heartworm preventive in dogs and cats, as well as a treatment for parasites in cattle, sheep, horses, and swine.
COVID-19: Ivermectin’s Rise in Demand
While it’s been widely used for years, this medicine has seen a spike in demand in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is a coronavirus discovered in 2019. This virus spreads through respiratory droplets and small particles when the patient coughs or sneezes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some patients experiencing no symptoms (asymptomatic) and others requiring life-saving hospitalization. Vaccines are available for this illness.
According to Front Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC), studies show that it’s a viable treatment option for some patients. FLCCC is an organization made up of physicians, clinical advisers, and partners who are committed to helping prevent and treat this disease. As COVID-19 infected patients across the globe, pharmacies saw elevated interest in human-grade ivermectin.
Is There a Shortage of Ivermectin?
Today, there are some order limits on ivermectin tablets from commercial drug wholesalers. As with any other product, public need can affect widespread availability. Pharmacies may not be able to fulfill large quantities of the medicine at once, and patients may have to receive it in portions.
As of September 2022, Edenbridge Pharmaceuticals, the primary company authorized by the FDA to manufacture and distribute ivermectin for humans in the United States, indicates that there are no supply shortages in the country. Most pharmacies can obtain the drug within 24 to 48 hours of ordering. This means that patients can still get the ivermectin they need to recover from illnesses.
If you’re concerned about the availability of ivermectin, speak to your physician, veterinary doctor, or pharmacist today. They can provide you with the most current information about ivermectin dosages, and your treatment options.
Get Ivermectin from HB Pharmacy
The licensed pharmacists at HB Pharmacy are experienced in compounding ivermectin and can answer any questions you have about this medication and its applications. In business since 1964, we proudly serve human and animal patients across northern New Jersey. For more insights about ivermectin availability and our other products and services, contact us today.