User:Mr. Ibrahem/Ivermectin

Ivermectin is a medication used to treat many types of parasite infestations. This includes head lice, scabies, river blindness (onchocerciasis), strongyloidiasis, trichuriasis, ascariasis, and lymphatic filariasis. It can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin for external infestations. Use in the eyes should be avoided.

Common side effects include red eyes, dry skin, and burning skin. It is unclear if it is safe for use during pregnancy, but is probably acceptable for use during breastfeeding. It belongs to the avermectin family of medications. It works by causing the parasite's cell membrane to increase in permeability, resulting in paralysis and death.

Ivermectin was discovered in 1975 and came into medical use in 1981. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. The wholesale cost in the developing world for the tablets is about US$0.12 for a course of treatment. In the United States, the costs is less than US$50 and is available over the counter. In other animals, it is used to prevent and treat heartworm and acariasis, among other indications.