Comparison of Devices Used in the Simple Suspension Method and Effects on the Dosage of STROMECTOL^® Tablets

Abstract

STROMECTOL^® Tablets (ivermectin), an oral scabicide, is often administered to patients as a simple suspension via a feeding tube. However, other studies have reported that this method reduces the dose of ivermectin by 10-50％ compared to that associated with oral administration. There are several devices used for administration via a feeding tube. This study proposes appropriate devices for such administration. First, we compared the recovery ratio of ivermectin by different 6 devices (a syringe, an oral dispenser, a small cup, kendakun, a suspension bottle and a quick bag). Among them, the results showed that the recovery ratio of the oral dispenser, suspension bottle, and quick bag was 100％ after flush operation. Next, we conducted a questionnaire survey of 10 students to evaluate the usefulness of the six devices. The result showed that the suspension bottle or quick bag was easiest to use but the suspension bottle required attention regarding back flow. In addition, the cost of the suspension bottle was the lowest, the dispenser was the highest. The usefulness test is limited because it is targeted at students. When administering STROMECTOL^® Tablets via a tube, the entire volume could be administered without any loss by flushing using a suspension bottle or a quick bag and setting the angle of administration directly underneath.