Does Benzarid Effectively Eliminate Scabies?
Benzarid, containing ivermectin, is highly effective at killing scabies mites. While not a guaranteed single-dose cure, it often eradicates infestations, particularly when combined with proper hygiene and environmental control.
Understanding Scabies: The Microscopic Invader
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. These mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin, where they live and lay eggs. This burrowing causes intense itching, especially at night. The itching leads to scratching, which can result in secondary bacterial infections. Scabies spreads through prolonged, direct skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the infestation. It’s important to note that scabies is not related to hygiene; anyone can get it.
Benzarid (Ivermectin): An Anti-Parasitic Solution
Benzarid contains ivermectin, a medication classified as an anti-parasitic drug. Ivermectin works by paralyzing and killing the scabies mites. It disrupts nerve and muscle function in invertebrates, leading to their death. Because humans have a different type of nerve and muscle system, ivermectin is generally safe for use, though side effects can occur.
How Benzarid Works Against Scabies
Benzarid (ivermectin) effectively kills scabies mites through a specific mechanism of action:
- Paralysis: Ivermectin binds to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels present in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This binding increases the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, leading to hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell.
- Interference with Neuromuscular Function: The hyperpolarization results in paralysis of the parasite. This paralysis prevents the mite from feeding, moving, or reproducing effectively.
- Death of the Mite: Ultimately, the paralysis induced by ivermectin leads to the death of the scabies mite.
Benzarid vs. Topical Treatments: A Comparative Look
While topical treatments like permethrin cream are a common first-line defense against scabies, Benzarid (ivermectin) offers certain advantages, particularly in cases of crusted scabies or when topical treatments are ineffective or difficult to apply (e.g., in individuals with mobility issues).
| Feature | Permethrin Cream (Topical) | Benzarid (Ivermectin – Oral) |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Topical application | Oral medication |
| Coverage | Limited to application area | Systemic – affects the entire body |
| Compliance | Requires careful application | Easier for many patients |
| Use in Crusted Scabies | Often less effective | Often more effective |
| Pregnancy/Lactation | Generally preferred | Use with caution |
Benzarid Dosage and Administration
Benzarid (ivermectin) dosage is usually based on body weight. A typical dose is around 200 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. It is crucial to follow a doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and administration. Usually, a single dose is given, followed by a second dose one to two weeks later. This second dose is important to kill any newly hatched mites. Benzarid should be taken on an empty stomach with water.
Potential Side Effects of Benzarid
While Benzarid (ivermectin) is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash
- Itching
Rare but more serious side effects can include seizures and liver problems. It’s essential to report any side effects to your doctor. Benzarid should be used with caution in individuals with liver or kidney problems, and it’s generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Maximizing Benzarid’s Effectiveness
To maximize the effectiveness of Benzarid in eradicating scabies, consider these steps:
- Follow doctor’s instructions precisely.
- Treat all household members and close contacts simultaneously, even if they don’t have symptoms.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry them on high heat. Alternatively, seal items in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours to kill the mites.
- Vacuum carpets and furniture thoroughly.
- Avoid close contact with others until treatment is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the early signs of scabies that I should look for?
Early signs of scabies often include intense itching, especially at night, and the appearance of small, raised bumps or blisters, often in web spaces between fingers, on wrists, elbows, armpits, around the waistline, or on the genitals. Sometimes, you might even see the thin, wavy lines of the burrows made by the mites. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
Is Benzarid safe for children?
Benzarid (ivermectin) can be used in children, but the dosage must be carefully calculated based on their weight. It’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician before administering Benzarid to a child to ensure proper dosage and assess any potential risks or interactions with other medications.
Can I get scabies from pets?
While pets can get mites, they usually get a different type of mite than human scabies. Human scabies, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, is specifically adapted to live on humans. Therefore, you cannot typically get scabies from pets. However, pets can sometimes transmit mites to humans causing a temporary and self-limiting condition called “mange.”
How long does it take for Benzarid to kill scabies mites?
Benzarid (ivermectin) begins to kill scabies mites within a few hours of taking the medication. However, it may take several days to a week for the itching to subside completely. A second dose is often needed to kill any newly hatched mites that survived the initial dose.
Does Benzarid kill scabies eggs?
While Benzarid (ivermectin) primarily targets the adult mites, it may also have some effect on the eggs. However, its efficacy against eggs is not as high as its effect on adult mites. This is why a second dose is typically recommended one to two weeks after the first dose, to kill any mites that hatched from the eggs after the initial treatment.
What should I do if Benzarid doesn’t work?
If Benzarid (ivermectin) doesn’t work after two doses, it’s essential to consult your doctor. There could be several reasons why the treatment failed, including: incorrect diagnosis, resistance to ivermectin, re-infestation, or incorrect dosage. Your doctor may recommend a different treatment option or further evaluation.
Can I buy Benzarid over the counter?
No, Benzarid (ivermectin) is a prescription medication. You cannot buy it over the counter. You need a prescription from a doctor to obtain it. This is because a doctor needs to diagnose the condition and determine the appropriate dosage and treatment plan.
How long is someone contagious with scabies?
Someone with scabies is contagious as long as live mites and eggs are present on their skin. This means they are contagious until they have been properly treated and the mites are dead. After successful treatment, they are no longer contagious.
Are there any natural remedies for scabies?
While some natural remedies like tea tree oil or neem oil are sometimes suggested for scabies, they are not as effective as prescription medications like Benzarid (ivermectin) or permethrin cream. These remedies may provide some temporary relief from itching, but they do not reliably kill the mites and should not be used as a primary treatment for scabies.
Can I reuse clothes and bedding after treating with Benzarid?
Yes, but it’s crucial to wash them properly first. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used in the three days before treatment in hot water and dry them on high heat. Alternatively, seal them in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours. This will kill any mites or eggs that may be present.
What is crusted scabies, and how does Benzarid help with it?
Crusted scabies (also known as Norwegian scabies) is a severe form of scabies characterized by thick crusts on the skin, containing a large number of mites. Benzarid (ivermectin) is often more effective for crusted scabies than topical treatments because it can reach mites in all layers of the skin. Often, a combination of oral ivermectin and topical treatments is used.
How can I prevent getting scabies again after treatment?
To prevent re-infestation with scabies, it’s crucial to treat all household members and close contacts simultaneously, even if they don’t have symptoms. Thoroughly clean the environment by washing bedding, clothing, and towels, and vacuuming carpets and furniture. Avoid close skin-to-skin contact with people who have scabies. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, can also help prevent the spread of scabies.