Hesham M Ahmad
Al-Minia University
Egypt
Title: Experience with ivermectin in treatment of scabies and pediculosis capitis
Biography
Biography: Hesham M Ahmad
Abstract
Many medications are available for treatment of scabies and pediculosis capitis including ivermectin. We compared the efficacy and safety of topical versus oral ivermectin in treatment of scabies and pediculosis capitis. A total of 62 patients with uncomplicated scabies and 62 patients with head lice infestation were included. Each group was further subdivided into: Group I received single topical application of 1% ivermectin and Group II received single dose of oral ivermectin. Treatment was repeated after one week for non responders and patients were evaluated weekly for 4 weeks. The clinical responses as well as side effects were reported weekly. The results of this study show that both topical and oral ivermectin demonstrate high efficacy and tolerability in treatment of scabies and pediculosis capitis. However, a single treatment of pediculosis capitis with topical ivermectin provides significantly higher cure of infestation and faster relief of pruritus than oral ivermectin. In addition, whether topical or oral ivermectin is used to treat scabies or head lice, a second dose is required in some cases to ensure complete eradication.
