Soolantra (ivermectin) Cream, 1% is a prescription-only topical medication specifically formulated for the treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea. Its unique mechanism of action targets the suspected inflammatory and parasitic pathways involved in this chronic dermatological condition. This formulation offers a well-tolerated, once-daily treatment option that reduces papules and pustules, leading to improved skin appearance and patient quality of life. Clinical studies demonstrate significant efficacy, with many patients achieving and maintaining clear skin with consistent use.

Features

• Contains 1% ivermectin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
• Formulated in a light, non-comedogenic, oil-in-water cream base.
• Designed for topical application to the facial skin.
• Prescription-only medication, ensuring supervised use.
• Supplied in a 30-gram or 45-gram tube with child-resistant closure.

Benefits

• Targeted Anti-inflammatory and Anti-parasitic Action: Uniquely reduces the population of Demodex mites, which are believed to contribute to the inflammatory response in rosacea, while also modulating local inflammation.
• Clinically Proven Efficacy: Significantly reduces the inflammatory lesion count (papules and pustules) compared to vehicle cream, as demonstrated in pivotal clinical trials.
• Improves Skin Appearance: Leads to a visible reduction in redness and bumps, resulting in smoother, clearer-looking skin and enhanced patient self-esteem.
• Favorable Safety and Tolerability Profile: Generally well-tolerated with a low incidence of side effects, most of which are mild and transient.
• Convenient Once-Daily Dosing: Simple regimen supports long-term treatment adherence, which is crucial for managing a chronic condition like rosacea.
• Non-Comedogenic Base: The cream formulation is designed to be non-greasy, is suitable for sensitive skin, and will not clog pores or contribute to acneiform eruptions.

Common use

Soolantra is indicated for the topical treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adult patients. It is specifically used to treat the papulopustular (subtype 2) presentation of the disease, characterized by redness, bumps, and pimples. It is not indicated for the treatment of the erythematotelangiectatic (flushing and visible blood vessels) or phymatous (skin thickening) subtypes of rosacea as a monotherapy.

Dosage and direction

• Dosage: Apply a pea-sized amount of Soolantra cream once daily to the entire face (forehead, chin, nose, and each cheek). Avoid application to the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
• Administration: Dispense the pea-sized amount onto a fingertip. Divide this amount into five smaller portions and dot them onto the forehead, chin, nose, and each cheek. Spread the cream smoothly and evenly into a thin layer across the entire face.
• Duration: Use once daily for the full duration prescribed by your healthcare provider. Clinical improvement may be observed as early as 2 weeks, but optimal results are typically seen after 12 weeks of continuous treatment. Long-term use may be necessary for maintenance.

Precautions

• For external use only. Soolantra is not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use.
• Discontinue use if hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation occurs.
• Patients should avoid getting the cream in their eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.
• As with any topical product, patients should not use occlusive dressings or wrappings unless directed by a physician.
• The effect of Soolantra on the Demodex mite population may initially cause a localized reaction due to the inflammatory response to the dying mites; this is not necessarily an indication to discontinue therapy but should be discussed with a prescribing clinician.

Contraindications

Soolantra is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to ivermectin or to any of the excipients in the cream formulation.

Possible side effect

The most common side effects observed during clinical trials were skin-related and generally mild and transient. These include:

• Skin burning sensation
• Skin irritation
• Pruritus (itching)
• Dry skin
• Contact dermatitis

Serious side effects are rare. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if signs of a severe allergic reaction occur (e.g., rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing).

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with topically applied Soolantra. Due to minimal systemic absorption (plasma concentrations of ivermectin are negligible following topical application), clinically significant drug interactions are not anticipated. However, always inform your healthcare provider of all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products you are using.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Topical overdose of Soolantra is unlikely due to its limited systemic absorption. Accidental oral ingestion may lead to systemic side effects associated with oral ivermectin, which could include gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention or contact a Poison Control center immediately.

Storage

• Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions are permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).
• Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

• “As a dermatologist, Soolantra has become a first-line tool in my arsenal for papulopustular rosacea. Its targeted mechanism and excellent tolerability profile lead to high patient satisfaction and adherence. The clinical data is robust, and I consistently see significant clearing of inflammatory lesions within a 12-week course.” – Board-Certified Dermatologist
• “After struggling with rosacea for years and trying numerous treatments, Soolantra provided noticeable results within a month. The redness and bumps subsided significantly, and my skin feels calmer. The once-a-day application is easy to remember and incorporate into my routine.” – Patient, 42
• “The initial cost was a concern, but the efficacy made it worthwhile. I experienced some mild itching in the first week, but it subsided completely. My skin is the clearest it has been in a decade.” – Patient, 51
• “From a clinical trial perspective, the vehicle-controlled studies for Soolantra demonstrated a clear and statistically significant benefit over placebo. The reduction in lesion count and the high number of patients achieving ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’ on the Investigator’s Global Assessment is compelling evidence for its use.” – Clinical Research Physician