Alice 6

Indications

Alice tablet is prescribed for the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Strongyloidiasis
• Onchocerciasis
• Filariasis
• Scabies
• Head lice

Strongyloidiasis of the Intestinal Tract: Alice is recommended for the treatment of intestinal strongyloidiasis caused by the nematode parasite Strongyloides stercoralis. Clinical studies have shown that a single dose of 200 mcg/kg of Alice cured 64-100% of infected patients.

Onchocerciasis: Alice is indicated for the treatment of onchocerciasis due to the nematode parasite Onchocerca volvulus. Studies conducted in onchocerciasis-endemic areas of West Africa have demonstrated its effectiveness compared to diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC-C).

Pharmacology

Ivermectin, the active ingredient in Alice, binds selectively and with high affinity to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This action increases the permeability of cell membranes to chloride ions, leading to hyperpolarization of nerve or muscle cells and eventual parasite death.

Dosage & Administration

For Treatment (If COVIO Positive): The recommended dosage is 2 tablets of Ivermectin 6 mg once daily for 5 days. For prophylaxis, a single dose is recommended on Day 1 and Day 7, depending on body weight.

Interaction

Rare post-marketing reports have shown increased INR (International Normalized Ratio) when Alice is co-administered with warfarin.

Contraindications

Alice is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions associated with Alice include asthenia/fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, nervous system effects, and skin reactions. These are generally mild and transient.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Ivermectin is categorized as Pregnancy Category C. Its safety during pregnancy has not been established. Nursing mothers should use caution as Ivermectin is excreted in human milk.

Precautions & Warnings

Patients with onchocerciasis may experience reactions to microfilaricidal drugs, including the Mazzotti reaction. These reactions, along with potential drug-related adverse effects, should be monitored closely.

Use in Special Populations

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients weighing less than 15 kg have not been established. Geriatric patients aged 65 and over were not extensively studied.

Therapeutic Class

Alice belongs to the anthelmintic class of drugs.

Storage Conditions

Store Alice in a dry place below 30°C, away from light, and out of the reach of children.