Is ivermectin a steroid or antibiotic?

Ivermectin Iverheal 12mg is a widely known medication used to treat various parasitic infections in both humans and animals. However, there is often confusion about its classification, with some people wondering whether it is a steroid or an antibiotic. The answer is neither—ivermectin Iverheal 6mg belongs to a class of drugs known as antiparasitics.

In this blog, we’ll explore what ivermectin is, how it works, and why it is neither a steroid nor an antibiotic.

What is Ivermectin?

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat infections caused by parasites such as roundworms, lice, and mites. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like:

• River blindness (onchocerciasis)
• Intestinal strongyloidiasis (a type of roundworm infection)
• Scabies and head lice
• Other parasitic infections in both humans and animals

This drug was originally derived from the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis and has been highly effective in combating parasitic diseases worldwide. In veterinary medicine, it is used to prevent heartworm disease in dogs and to treat various infections in livestock.

Is Ivermectin a Steroid?

No, ivermectin is not a steroid.

What are Steroids?

Steroids are a class of organic compounds that include corticosteroids (used for reducing inflammation) and anabolic steroids (used for muscle growth). Common corticosteroids include prednisone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone, which are prescribed to treat conditions like asthma, arthritis, and allergies.

Why Ivermectin is Not a Steroid:

1. Different Mechanism of Action – Steroids work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system, whereas ivermectin works by paralyzing and killing parasites.
2. Different Uses – Steroids are used for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, while ivermectin is used for parasitic infections.
3. No Hormonal Effects – Unlike steroids, ivermectin does not affect hormones, metabolism, or muscle growth.

Is Ivermectin an Antibiotic?

No, ivermectin is not an antibiotic either.

What are Antibiotics?

Antibiotics are drugs used to fight bacterial infections. They work by either killing bacteria (bactericidal) or stopping their growth (bacteriostatic). Some well-known antibiotics include penicillin, amoxicillin, and azithromycin.

Why Ivermectin is Not an Antibiotic:

1. Different Target Organisms – Antibiotics target bacteria, while ivermectin targets parasites like worms, lice, and mites.
2. Different Mechanism of Action – Antibiotics interfere with bacterial growth, but ivermectin paralyzes and kills parasites by affecting their nervous system.
3. No Effect on Bacterial Infections – Ivermectin does not treat bacterial infections, so it cannot replace antibiotics.

How Does Ivermectin Work?

Ivermectin works by binding to specific glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nervous system of parasites. This causes an influx of chloride ions, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite.

Since humans and animals do not have these specific chloride channels, ivermectin is considered safe when used at appropriate doses.

Uses of Ivermectin in Medicine

Ivermectin has been widely used in both human and veterinary medicine. Some key uses include:

1. Treating Parasitic Infections in Humans

• Onchocerciasis (River Blindness): A parasitic infection transmitted by black flies that can cause blindness.
• Strongyloidiasis: A roundworm infection affecting the intestines.
• Scabies and Head Lice: Ivermectin is sometimes used as an oral or topical treatment.

2. Veterinary Uses

• Heartworm Prevention in Dogs and Cats
• Treatment of Parasitic Infections in Livestock (cattle, sheep, and horses)

Misconceptions About Ivermectin

1. Ivermectin as a COVID-19 Treatment

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ivermectin gained attention as a possible treatment. However, major health organizations like the FDA, WHO, and CDC have stated that there is no strong scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness against COVID-19. It is not an antiviral drug and should not be used for viral infections.

2. Ivermectin’s Safety

While ivermectin is generally safe at prescribed doses, self-medication or using veterinary formulations for human use can be dangerous. Overdosing on ivermectin can cause serious side effects, including neurological issues, seizures, and liver damage.

Conclusion

Ivermectin is not a steroid and not an antibiotic—it is an antiparasitic medication used to treat various parasitic infections in humans and animals. It does not work on bacteria (like antibiotics) or inflammation (like steroids) but instead targets parasites by disrupting their nervous systems.