Pharmacotherapeutic group: Avermectins
ATCvet Code: QP54AA01
Pharmacodynamic properties
Ivermectin is a 22,23-dihydro derivative of an avermectin (which is a fermentation product produced by Streptomyces avermitilis) and consists of 2 homologues: B1a and B1b. It is a parasiticide with nematocidal, insecticidal and acaricidal activity documented in a wide range of domesticated animals.
Avermectins act to stimulate GABA mediated chloride ion conductance, causing irreversible neuromuscular blockade in nematodes, followed by paralysis and death.