Ivermectin, a member of the avermectin class, causes death of parasites, primarily through binding selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride channels, which occur in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This leads to an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions with hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell, resulting in paralysis and death of the parasite. Compounds of this class may also interact with other ligandgated chloride channels, such as those gated by the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The selective activity of compounds of this class is attributable to the fact that some mammals do not have glutamate-gated chloride channels, the avermectins have a low affinity for mammalian ligand-gated chloride channels, and Ivermectin does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier in humans.

Ivermectin is indicated for topical treatment of head lice infestations in patients 6 months of age and older.

Only for topical use in scalp & scalp hair. It is not for oral, ophthalmic or intravaginal use. Apply the Lotion to dry hair in an amount sufficient (up to 1 tube) to thoroughly coat the hair and scalp. After 10 minutes, rinse off with water. The tube is intended for single use. Discard any unused portion. Contact with eyes should be avoided

Administration

Your hair and scalp must be completely dry before applying Ivermectin Lotion

• Apply Ivermectin Lotion directly to dry hair and scalp.
• Completely cover your scalp and hair closest to the scalp first, and then apply outwards towards the ends of your hair.
• Rub Ivermectin Lotion throughout your hair.
• It is important to completely cover your entire head so that all lice and eggs are exposed to the lotion. Be sure that each hair is coated from the scalp to the tip.
• Use sufficient quantities to completely cover hair and scalp.
• Allow Ivermectin Lotion to stay on your hair and scalp for 10 minutes after it has been applied. Start timing after you have completely covered your hair and scalp with Ivermectin Lotion.
• After 10 minutes, completely rinse Ivermectin Lotion from your hair and scalp using water only.
• After application of Ivermectin Lotion, you or anyone who helps you to apply the lotion should wash hands properly

Common side effects are-

• Conjunctivitis
• Ocular hyperemia
• Eye irritation
• Dandruff
• Dry skin
• Skin burning sensation etc.

Accidental ingestion in pediatric patients may occur administer only under direct adult supervision.

Tips to prevent the spreading of lice:

• Avoid direct head-to-head contact with anyone known to have live, crawling lice.
• Do not share combs, brushes, hats, scarves, bandannas, ribbons, hair bands, towels, helmets, or other hair-related personal items with anyone else, whether they have lice or not.
• After finishing treatment with anti-lice medicine, check everyone in your family for lice after one week. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about treatments for those who have lice.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies with Ivermectin Lotion in pregnant women. Ivermectin Lotion should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Following oral administration, Ivermectin is excreted in human milk in low concentrations. This has not been evaluated following topical administration. Caution should be exercised when Ivermectin Lotion is administered to a nursing woman.