Ivermectin (By Mouth)

Ivermectin (eye-ver-MEK-tin)

Treats infections caused by roundworms, threadworms, and other parasites. Belongs to a class of drugs called anthelmintics.

Brand Name(s):

Stromectol
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ivermectin.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
• Take the tablet with water.
• Usually, you will need only one dose of the medicine to treat your infection.
• However, patients with immune system disorders, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, may need to use a dose every 2 weeks for several weeks to treat the infection. Some patients may need to use the medicine every month to keep the infection from coming back.

If a dose is missed:

• If you are using the medicine regularly, and miss your dose, call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the tablets at room temperature, away from heat, direct light, and moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before using this medicine.
• If you are being treated for an intestinal infection from threadworms, you will need to have your bowel movements tested to make sure that the infection is gone. It is very important that you have these tests done as often as your doctor orders.
• If you are being treated for river blindness (onchocerciasis), you may need retreatment and surgery to kill the adult parasite. You will need to see your doctor for follow up care.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Intense itching, or severe rash or hives
• Joint pain, or swelling or tenderness under your arms, in your neck, or around your groin
• Fainting
• Eye inflammation
• Unexplained fever

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Feeling weak or tired
• Mild rash or mild itching

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.