How Long to Use Ivermectin for Rosacea
Important Facts
- Topical 1% ivermectin cream has been approved by the FDA. It is used to treat papulopustular rosacea. It can decrease the bumps and redness associated with the condition, with visible results in about 2 weeks.
- Oral ivermectin is not approved by the FDA to treat rosacea and animal formulations of the drug are unsafe and can be toxic to humans.
- Most people tolerate Topical Ivermectin, but it can cause minor skin irritation. It has not been studied in children, nor has it been studied for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Every year millions of people are diagnosed with the chronic skin condition Rosacea. It causes consistent facial redness, skin irritation, and the appearance of tiny acne-like bumps that come and go. Treatments for Rosacea are focused on finding a long-term management strategy, since there are no permanent solutions. One of the most effective long term management options available is Topical Ivermectin. This article will discuss how long Ivermectin should be used for Rosacea and the best results.
What is Ivermectin?
Drugs like Ivermectin are used to treat parasitic infections. It is also used in dermatology, most commonly for the treatment of rosacea. Ivermectin works differently than most other rosacea treatments, and not only targets the redness, but the underlying inflammation and other associated factors of papulopustular rosacea.
How does Ivermectin help with rosacea?
Ivermectin craems was FDA approved in 2014 for the treatment of papulopustular rosacea. It is an emotional and physically painful condition.
There are 2 reasons for treating rosacea with Ivermectin:
- Ivermectin is an anti inflammatory that helps with the inflammatory response that causes redness and swelling.
- There are skin mites that cause respiratory problems and inflammatory symptoms.
- Some studies suggest that the overgrowth of Demodex mites causes rosacea in some individuals. Rosacea flare ups can be triggered by excessive micrscopic skin mites. Ivermectin controls the skin mites.
Ivermectin addresses all the reasons for rosacea skin bumps and helps with long term skin control.
How Long to Use Ivermectin for Rosacea?
Dermatologists suggest taking Ivermectin once a day for 3 to 4 months. Studies report a lot of patients see results in 2 to 4 weeks and results continue to get better over a 3 month period. After 12 weeks patients report much improvement and many report better quality of life.
Patients often continue daily or biweekly dosing of ivermectin for symptom control due to rosacea’s chronicity. Early cessation poses the risk of symptom return, requiring response-guided duration adjustments coupled with professional oversight.
Benefits of Ivermectin for Rosacea
The positive effects of topical Ivermectin include:
- Decreased inflammatory bumps and pustules
- Enhanced overall skin appearance and comfort
- Ease of use and higher overall patient satisfaction as compared to older topical treatments
With consistent use for several weeks, Ivermectin’s higher patient satisfaction has been challenged for covered improvement over older topical treatments.
Where to Buy Ivermectin
There are authorized online distributors and pharmacies like Meds4shop where topical Ivermectin is available. Strictly human-approved products must be purchased as the other options are not safe.
How to Use Ivermectin in Your Skincare Routine
In order to gain the most from the use of Ivermectin, the following steps delineate the best practices for use:
- Prior to any other step wash your face with a non-irritating cleaner
- Using the tip of your finger to dispense a pea size amount of Ivermectin take it to the treatment area
- After your skin has had time to fully absorb the Ivermectin you can apply your moisturizer and sunscreen
- Try to stay away from harsh exfoliants that may irritate the skin or induce flare ups. Likewise, steer clear from products that contain alcohol.
Patience is key. In order to see the results, and keep them, daily use is required for a few weeks.
Safety and Side Effects
1% Topical Ivermectin is generally safe for adults. Most side effects that occur are minor and include:
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Skin irritation, itching, and dryness
- Temporary redness
These side effects often lessen with time, as the skin acclimatizes. Because ivermectin has not been studied in children, pregnant or nursing women, use in these groups should be discussed with a health care provider.
Alternatives to Ivermectin for Rosacea
There may be other options to consider if Ivermectin is ineffective or not a suitable option:
- Metronidazole cream or gel: A long time topical treatment for rosacea
- Azelaic Acid: Reduces inflammatory bumps
- Oral antibiotics: Sometimes used for short term for severe flare ups
- Laser or light therapies: Can target persistent redness
Avoiding certain triggers, like heat, alcohol, spicy foods, and more is critical to long term management.
Final Words
What is the duration of treatment with ivermectin for rosacea? Most individuals see results within the first 2 weeks and continue to improve for a daily course of 12 to 16 weeks. Since rosacea is chronic and long-lasting condition, some may continue to take ivermectin as maintenance, under medical guidance of course. When used correctly, and consistently, topical ivermectin can greatly improve symptoms and over time can improve confidence and comfort.