Ivermectin functions by interfering with channels that are used to relay signals in nerve and muscle cells. The drug binds to these channels, and as a result, the channel is left in an "open" position, which allows for an increased inhibitory effect. This leads to paralysis and the eventual death of the parasite or insect. It is important to note that while parasites and insects are more sensitive to ivermectin, the drug can act on the same receptors in mammalian cells.
Ivermectin has many uses in veterinary medicine. As an anthelmintic ("Dewormer") medication it can be used to treat multiple species of internal and external parasites. Internal parasite species that can be treated with ivermectin include gastrointestinal worms (primarily roundworms) in horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats as well as lungworms in cattle and pigs. External parasites that can be treated with ivermectin in large animals include lice, mites, and grubs. In people, ivermectin is used for the treatment of river blindness (onchocerciasis) and lymphatic filariasis. It has additional uses for the treatment of lice and mite infestations in people.
