Efficacy of ivermectin in the treatment of strongyloidiasis complicating AIDS

Clin Infect Dis. 1993 Nov;17(5):900-2. doi: 10.1093/clinids/17.5.900.

Abstract

Nine adult male homosexuals who were infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (five with AIDS-defining conditions) and harbored Strongyloides stercoralis received ivermectin on a compassionate basis for persistent intestinal infection. Hyperinfection was present in all cases. Ivermectin was given either as a single oral dose (200 micrograms/kg) or on a multidose schedule (200 micrograms/kg.d) on days 1, 2, 15, and 16. All seven patients who received multiple doses showed sustained clinical and parasitological cure, whereas one of two patients who received single-dose therapy relapsed promptly and fatally. Remissions have been maintained for at least 7 months and up to 3 years of follow-up. Ivermectin appears promising in the treatment of strongyloidiasis in patients with AIDS. Because of the risk of hyperinfection and/or disseminated disease, multidose courses are warranted. We are not aware of other reports describing the efficacy of antiparasitic drugs for strongyloidiasis in patients with AIDS.

MeSH terms

  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / complications*
  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / drug therapy
  • AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / immunology
  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Ivermectin / administration & dosage
  • Ivermectin / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Strongyloides stercoralis*
  • Strongyloidiasis / complications*
  • Strongyloidiasis / drug therapy*
  • Strongyloidiasis / immunology

Substances

  • Ivermectin