What characteristic makes Ivermectin effective for treating certain infections?

Ivermectin is effective for treating certain infections primarily due to its interaction with helminth nerve and muscle cells. It binds to specific glutamate-gated chloride channels, which are present in the nervous and muscular systems of many parasitic worms. This binding leads to an increased permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, causing paralysis and ultimately death of the parasites. This mode of action is highly selective, targeting nematodes and other helminths, making it a powerful anthelmintic agent.

Other characteristics related to the drug, such as its ability to penetrate the placenta or its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, do not directly contribute to its effectiveness against these infections. Instead, they may pertain to pharmacokinetics and safety considerations, but they do not influence the specific mechanism by which Ivermectin exerts its therapeutic effect on helminths.