Authors: Edwards G PMID: 14975065 PMCID: PMC2147658 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2883-2-S1-S8 Abstract The macrocyclic lactone ivermectin (Mectizan(R)) is widely used for the control of human filarial infections, particularly as a donated product for onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis. In the case of control of lymphatic filariasis in Africa, it is used in combination with donated albendazole. In areas [...]

Safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of the antiparasitic drug ivermectin, administered in higher and/or more frequent doses than currently approved for human use, were evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose escalation study.

To assess the effect of ivermectin on immune function (antibody production), male CD-1 mice were inoculated with an antigen the day after SC administration of ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg of body weight or 20 mg/kg). Responses were evaluated 5 days after inoculation of the antigen. Antibody production against sheep RBC, a T lymphocyte-, macrophage-dependent response, was enhanced by ivermectin treatment (P = 0.00049). In contrast, antibody production against dinitrophenyl-Ficoll, a T lymphocyte-independent, macrophage-dependent response, was not altered by ivermectin treatment. Results indicate that the immunostimulatory properties of ivermectin are associated with altered function of T lymphocytes, in particular, T-helper lymphocytes. The immunomodulating effects of ivermectin may provide an alternative approach for treatment of disease problems involving immunosuppression.