Mectizan for Onchocerciasis

A single, annual dose of Mectizan of 150 to 200 mcg/kg has been found to effectively reduce the microfilarial density in the skin to near zero after one month and to successfully maintain a low microfilarial level for up to 12 months. Reduction of microfilarial density in the skin can significantly reduce parasite transmission.

At present, the specific mechanism of action of Mectizan against O. volvulus has not been clearly delineated. It has been determined that Mectizan has a direct toxic effect on microfilariae and interferes with their development and release from the uterus of adult female worms.

Mectizan also has a very beneficial effect on symptoms and clinical manifestations of onchocerciasis. It relieves the intense itching from the disease, and it clears microfilariae from the eye, which halts the progression towards blindness except in very advanced cases.