Does ivermectin poisoning have side effects?
May 16, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Mingxuan
Introduction
Avermectin poisoning has adverse effects. Avermectin is a neurotoxin that exerts its insecticidal effect primarily by inhibiting and paralyzing the nervous system of insects. Similarly, the primary target of avermectin toxicity in humans is the nervous system, manifesting as limb weakness, muscle tremors, convulsions, and coma. Gastrointestinal symptoms—including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea—may also occur.
Avermectin is a widely used insecticide, especially during hot weather, when many people apply it. So, does avermectin poisoning cause adverse effects?
Does avermectin poisoning cause adverse effects?
Yes, avermectin poisoning does cause adverse effects. Avermectin is a neurotoxic agent whose insecticidal action primarily results from inhibition and paralysis of the insect nervous system. Similarly, the main target organ in humans poisoned by avermectin is the nervous system, manifesting as limb weakness, muscle tremors, convulsions, and coma. Gastrointestinal symptoms—including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea—are also common. Cardiac involvement may occur, such as arrhythmias and heart failure. Hepatic damage—including even hepatic failure—can also develop. The severity of these effects largely depends on the ingested dose and the timeliness of gastric lavage.
Avermectin exhibits antibacterial, insecticidal, and acaricidal activity. It acts against mites via both stomach toxicity and contact killing, but it does not kill mite eggs. It exerts direct contact toxicity against predatory insects and parasitic natural enemies. Avermectin degrades readily via microbial breakdown and thus poses no risk of environmental bioaccumulation. When diluted in water with brief stirring, it is ready for application and presents a relatively low risk to crops.
When handling avermectin, wear a mask or respirator, avoid prolonged exposure to the chemical environment, and drink ample warm water to accelerate metabolism. If symptoms are severe, prompt pharmacological treatment is essential. We hope this information is helpful to you!
