[Ivermectin and human onchocerciasis. A study of 234 onchocerciasis patients in the Republic of Mali].

In a double blind study Ivermectin has been compared to a placebo in 234 male and female with onchocerciasis who had more than 20 microfilariae per milligram of skin and moderate ocular involvement. Patient was randomized to receive a simple oral dose of Ivermectin 100, 150 and 200 micrograms/kg or placebo. The following was 12 months. The decrease of microfilarodermia since to the 3rd day was from 72.8 to 79.3% of initial rate. At six months it was more than 91% and more than 87% in 12 months. Ocular microfilariae, initially between 12 and 23 stay lower than 2 at 12 months. Punctuated keratitis disappear and did not recidive still 6 months in patients with persistent microfilariae. Ivermectin produce only few side effects. Negative waves have been observed on ECG but without any clinical signs. The Power efficient dose seen to be 100 micrograms/kg.