Ivermectin for the Treatment of Resistant Scabies

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the clinical literature describing the use of ivermectin in cases of treatment-resistant scabies infestations.

DATA SOURCES:

Clinical literature accessed through a MEDLINE search (1966–July 2001) and the Cochrane Database.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

A limited number of case reports and case series describes successful intervention with ivermectin use in patients who have failed prior therapy. Ivermectin may serve as a viable alternative therapy as the incidence of resistant scabitic infestations increases.

CONCLUSIONS:

Ivermectin appears to be a safe and effective alternative for patients with treatment-resistant scabies. Larger, controlled clinical trials are required before this therapy can be recommended in the general population or as primary therapy.