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Pediatric Reference

Ivermectin Side EffectsComprehensive Pediatric Safety Guide

Ivermectin is generally well tolerated. Dizziness, nausea, and mild rash are most common.

3 Categories
5 Clinical Sources
Evidence-Based
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Essential Information

1

Monitor for dizziness or fatigue on dosing day.

2

Report fever or rash after treatment for onchocerciasis.

3

Watch for signs of allergic reaction.

Clinical Overview

Reactions from parasite kill (Mazotti) can occur in heavy onchocerciasis infections.

Side Effect Categories

3 Systems

Neurologic

2 documented effects

Total Sources: 2

Dizziness

Incidence: Common
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Encourage rest and hydration on dosing day.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Headache

Incidence: Common
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Supportive care; monitor for severe pain.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Dermatologic

2 documented effects

Total Sources: 2

Rash

Incidence: Common in onchocerciasis
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Symptomatic relief; differentiate from allergic reactions.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Pruritus

Incidence: Common
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Antihistamines or topical steroids as directed.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Immunologic

1 documented effect

Total Sources: 1

Mazotti reaction

Incidence: Uncommon
Onset: Not specified
moderate
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Monitor temperature and blood pressure; corticosteroids may be required.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Parent Communication Guide

Age-Appropriate Explanations

Infants (0-12 months)

For babies taking Ivermectin, watch for signs of side effects. This medication is generally well-tolerated in infants when used as directed.

Toddlers (1-3 years)

If your toddler is taking Ivermectin, they might feel different. This is usually temporary and normal.

Children (4-12 years)

This medicine fights parasites. Take it before breakfast with water, then rest if you feel tired.

Adolescents (13+ years)

Take on an empty stomach, then wait an hour before eating.

Common Parent Concerns

Q: Feeling dizzy

A: Rest and drink fluids; it should pass in a day.

When to validate: Call if dizziness is severe or lasts more than 24 hours.

Q: Rash after dosing

A: Mild itching can occur as parasites die.

When to validate: Seek care for facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or high fever.

Clinical Decision Support

Severity Assessment Framework

Clinical assessment framework for Ivermectin adverse effects using standardized severity grading.

Mild
Indicators: Minimal symptoms, No functional impairment, Patient comfortable continuing
Action: Continue medication with supportive care and routine monitoring
Moderate
Indicators: Noticeable symptoms, Some functional impact, Patient/family concerned
Action: Consider dose adjustment, increase monitoring frequency, provide supportive care
Severe
Indicators: Significant symptoms, Functional impairment, Quality of life affected
Action: Consider discontinuation, evaluate alternatives, close clinical follow-up

Treatment Decision Guidelines

Immediate Discontinuation

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Life-threatening adverse effects
  • Signs of toxicity

Consider Alternatives

  • Persistent moderate side effects
  • Inadequate therapeutic response
  • Patient/family preference

Dose Modification

  • Mild side effects with good efficacy
  • Age-related sensitivity
  • Drug interaction concerns

Clinical References

Ivermectin TabletsDailyMed (2024)Label
Strongyloidiasis TreatmentCDC (2024)Guideline

Frequently Asked Questions

Parent and clinician concerns about Ivermectin