Generic Ivermectin (Ivermectin)

Introduction

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication used primarily to treat infections caused by certain intestinal worms and external parasites. The active compound is ivermectin, formulated as oral tablets available in 3 mg, 6 mg, and 12 mg strengths. It belongs to the class of macrocyclic lactone antiparasitics. Approved clinical uses include treatment of strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, and scabies. In addition, clinicians sometimes consider ivermectin for off-label conditions, although such applications have not received regulatory approval.

What is Ivermectin?

Ivermectin is the generic version of well-known medications, containing the active compound ivermectin. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost-effective treatment option. The drug is marketed under brand names such as Stromectol and Mectizan and is manufactured by several licensed producers worldwide. It is classified as a macrocyclic lactone antiparasitic and was first discovered in the late s from the soil bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis.

How Ivermectin Works

Ivermectin binds selectively to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of invertebrates. This binding increases the permeability of the cell membrane to chloride ions, leading to hyperpolarization, paralysis, and death of the parasite. Human neurons lack these specific channels, which accounts for the drug’s wide therapeutic margin. After oral administration, peak plasma concentrations are reached within 4 hours; the drug is highly lipophilic, distributes into tissues, and is primarily excreted unchanged in the feces. The biological half-life ranges from 12 to 36 hours, allowing for single-dose regimens in many indications.

Conditions Treated with Ivermectin

• Strongyloidiasis (Strongyloides stercoralis infection) - A single oral dose of 200 µg/kg, often repeated after two weeks, eradicates the intestinal threadworm.
• Onchocerciasis (River blindness) - Daily dosing of 150 µg/kg for seven consecutive days eliminates the microfilariae that cause ocular and skin disease.
• Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation) - A single oral dose of 200 µg/kg is effective for crusted or typical scabies; a second dose may be given after one week in severe cases.

These conditions are approved by major regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, EMA) because ivermectin’s mechanism directly targets the parasites responsible for each disease, leading to rapid clinical resolution.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Ivermectin

• COVID-19 - Early laboratory studies showed antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, prompting several clinical trials. Large, well-controlled trials have not demonstrated a consistent benefit, and health authorities have not approved ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment.
• Dermatologic conditions (e.g., rosacea, papular urticaria) - Small case series suggest anti-inflammatory properties may help certain skin disorders, but evidence remains limited.
• Parasitic infections not listed in the official label (e.g., lymphatic filariasis, tungiasis) - In endemic regions, ivermectin is sometimes used as part of mass-drug-administration programs based on World Health Organization recommendations, though formal regulatory approval varies by country.

All off-label applications should be undertaken only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Is Ivermectin the Right Medication for You?

Ivermectin is appropriate for adults who have been diagnosed with one of the approved parasitic infections and who have no contraindications. It is particularly useful when rapid parasite clearance is required, such as in strongyloidiasis patients at risk for hyperinfection.

Contraindications include:

• Known hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any excipients.
• Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) because reduced clearance can increase systemic exposure.
• Pregnant or lactating women, unless the benefit clearly outweighs potential risk, as safety data are limited.

Patients with a high burden of microfilariae (especially Loa loa) may develop severe neurologic adverse events and should avoid ivermectin unless a specialist recommends a modified regimen.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
• Dizziness or light-headedness.
• Mild pruritus or skin rash.

These events are usually transient and resolve without medical intervention.

Rare

• Fever, swollen lymph nodes, or transient eosinophilia.
• Elevated liver enzymes (transaminitis).

Monitoring is advisable for patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Serious

• Neurologic toxicity (e.g., encephalopathy, seizures) - primarily reported in patients with high microfilarial loads or concurrent use of strong P-glycoprotein inhibitors.
• Severe cutaneous reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Hypotension or anaphylactoid reactions in rare cases.

Any serious or persistent symptom warrants immediate medical attention.

Drug-Drug and Drug-Food Interactions

• P-glycoprote (P-gp) inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, quinidine) can raise ivermectin plasma concentrations, increasing neurotoxicity risk.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, ketoconazole) may also elevate levels.
• Anticoagulants such as warfarin have shown modest increases in INR when combined with ivermectin; dose adjustments may be needed.
• Food - High-fat meals can increase absorption modestly; the drug can be taken with or without food, but consistency is recommended.
• Alcohol - Excessive alcohol may exacerbate dizziness; moderate consumption is acceptable.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing:
  • Strongyloidiasis: 200 µg/kg orally as a single dose; repeat after 14 days if needed.
  • Onchocerciasis: 150 µg/kg once daily for 7 days.
  • Scabies: 200 µg/kg single dose; a second dose after 7 days for crusted scabies.
• Missed dose: Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is less than 12 hours away; in that case, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical care immediately; supportive care is the mainstay of treatment.

Practical precautions - avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you are certain ivermectin does not cause dizziness. Alcohol should be limited on the day of dosing.

FAQ

• What should I store ivermectin tablets in?   Store the tablets at room temperature, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

• Can I travel internationally with ivermectin in my luggage?   Yes, but retain the original packaging and any supporting documentation that confirms the medication is for personal use. Some countries require a prescription copy; verify local customs regulations before departure.

• Is there a difference between the 3 mg, 6 mg, and 12 mg tablets?   All three strengths contain the same active ingredient; the different dosages allow clinicians to match the exact weight-based dose (µg/kg) required for each patient, improving dosing accuracy and reducing tablet burden.

• What inactive ingredients are present in generic ivermectin tablets?   Typical excipients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and colloidal silicon dioxide. Formulations may vary slightly between manufacturers, so consult the product leaflet for exact details.

• Will ivermectin show up on standard drug tests?   Ivermectin is not screened for in routine workplace or sports drug-testing panels. It is not classified as a controlled substance.

• Can ivermectin be used in patients with a history of seizures?   Patients with uncontrolled seizure disorders should use ivermectin only after risk assessment by a specialist, because high plasma concentrations have been linked to rare neurologic events.

• How long does it take for symptoms of scabies to improve after a dose?   Pruritus often diminishes within 24-48 hours, but visible lesions may persist for several weeks as the skin heals. A second dose may be required for crusted scabies.

• Is ivermectin safe for people with renal impairment?   Because the drug is eliminated primarily via feces, mild to moderate renal impairment does not usually require dose adjustment. Severe renal failure should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

• What is the difference between ivermectin tablets and the topical formulation?   Oral tablets are used for systemic parasitic infections, while the 1 % topical cream is approved for external parasites such as head lice and certain skin mite infestations. The two forms have distinct absorption profiles and indications.

• Can I take ivermectin with a grapefruit juice diet?   Grapefruit juice can inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes, potentially increasing ivermectin levels. Moderate consumption is unlikely to cause problems, but avoid large amounts on the day of dosing.

Glossary

Macrocyclic Lactone

A class of antiparasitic agents that contain a large lactone ring; ivermectin belongs to this group and works by binding to parasite-specific chloride channels.

Microfilariae

The larval stage of filarial worms that circulate in the bloodstream; elimination of microfilariae is essential to halt disease progression in onchocerciasis.

Therapeutic Window

The dosage range in which a drug provides clinical benefit without causing unacceptable side effects. Ivermectin’s wide therapeutic window allows single-dose regimens for many infections.

P-glycoprotein (P-gp)

A transport protein that pumps various substances out of cells; inhibition of P-gp can raise ivermectin concentrations and increase the risk of neurotoxicity.

Buying Ivermectin from Our Online Pharmacy

Ivermectin can be obtained safely through our online pharmacy. By sourcing the generic form, patients benefit from a price that is close to the manufacturer’s cost while still meeting strict quality standards. All tablets are purchased from licensed, internationally reputable suppliers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices, ensuring each batch is authentic and free from contamination.

Our service emphasizes privacy: orders are packaged discreetly, and personal information is protected by secure, encrypted portals. Delivery options include a rapid 7-day express service for urgent needs and an economical regular airmail route that typically arrives within three weeks. Because we operate as a pharmacy-broker service, we can provide medications that may be unavailable through local pharmacies or insurance formularies, making treatment accessible for patients with limited options.

Choosing our online pharmacy means receiving a reliable product, clear dosing information, and responsive customer support, all while maintaining the confidentiality you deserve.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Ivermectin is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. All therapeutic decisions, including those concerning off-label applications, must be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are presumed to be competent adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy offers access to Ivermectin for individuals who may encounter challenges obtaining the medication through conventional pharmacy channels or who seek cost-effective generic alternatives. Always discuss any medication changes with a qualified provider before initiating, adjusting, or discontinuing treatment.