In short
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating the treatment of strongyloidiasis, a parasitic infection commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. This trial is evaluating the effectiveness of ivermectin in adults with healthy immune systems and is being conducted in Spain.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Ivermectin for Treating Strongyloidiasis in Adults with Normal Immune Function
This clinical trial is focused on studying the treatment of strongyloidiasis, a disease caused by a parasitic worm. Many people with this infection do not show symptoms or have mild issues like stomach problems, breathing difficulties, and skin rashes. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those taking certain medications or who have had organ transplants, the disease can lead to serious complications.
Main inclusion criteria:
- Participants must be 18 years old or older
- Must have a confirmed diagnosis of strongyloidiasis, either by finding the parasite's larvae in stool tests or specific cultures, or by testing positive in a blood test that checks for antibodies with a specific result
- Must currently live in an area where the infection is not actively spreading
- Must sign an informed consent form, which explains the study and confirms agreement to participate
Main exclusion criteria:
- Patients with weakened immune systems
- Patients currently taking corticosteroids, which are medications that reduce inflammation
- Patients who have had an organ transplant
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Patients with other serious health conditions that might interfere with the study or make participation unsafe
- Patients unable to follow study procedures or instructions
Focus and goal of the trial:
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ivermectin for treating uncomplicated strongyloidiasis in adults with healthy immune systems. Specifically, it compares a single fixed dose of 18 mg ivermectin to a dose adjusted based on the patient's weight. The primary goal is to determine if both dosing methods provide the same response in eliminating the parasite from the body. Participants will be monitored over a period to assess whether the treatment successfully clears the infection and to ensure it is safe. The trial is expected to conclude by October 2026.
Investigational drug:
The medication being tested is ivermectin, an antiparasitic agent administered orally in tablet form. Ivermectin works by binding to specific channels in the nerve and muscle cells of parasites, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite. This helps to clear the infection from the body.
Summary
Currently, there is only one clinical trial actively recruiting patients for strongyloidiasis treatment. This trial is being conducted in Spain and focuses exclusively on testing ivermectin in adults with normal immune function. The study represents an important effort to optimize dosing strategies for this antiparasitic medication, comparing a fixed dose approach to the traditional weight-adjusted dosing method. While strongyloidiasis is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, this trial targets patients who now live in areas without active transmission, which may include individuals who have traveled or relocated from endemic areas. The concentration on patients with healthy immune systems fills an important gap, as most complications from this infection occur in immunocompromised individuals, but effective treatment protocols for immunocompetent patients remain important for preventing long-term persistence of the parasite.
