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Ivermectin and Alcohol/Food Interactions

There is 1 alcohol/food/lifestyle interaction with ivermectin.

Moderate

Alcohol (Ethanol) Ivermectin

Moderate Drug Interaction

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may increase the plasma concentrations of ivermectin. The mechanism of interaction is unknown. In 20 healthy, nonsmoking patients with onchocerciasis, mean plasma ivermectin concentrations at 1, 3 and 4 hours post-dose (150 mcg/kg) were approximately 34% to 40% higher in the group given the medication with 750 mL of beer (4.5% v/v alcohol) than in controls who ingested the medication with water. There were no side effects in either study or control subjects. However, there have been anecdotal reports of increased central nervous system adverse effects and postural hypotension in patients who combined ivermectin with alcohol.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving ivermectin therapy should preferably avoid the consumption of alcohol to prevent any undue adverse effects of ivermectin.

References

  1. Chijioke CP, Okonkwo PO (1992) "Adverse events following mass ivermectin therapy for onchocerciasis." Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg, 86, p. 284-6
  2. Pollak PT, Slayter KL (1997) "Reduced serum theophylline concentrations after discontinuation of azithromycin: evidence for an unusual interaction." Pharmacotherapy, 17, p. 827-9

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Ivermectin drug interactions

There are 98 drug interactions with ivermectin.

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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