Drug Class: Antiparasitic / Anthelmintic | Form: Oral Tablet | Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Ivermectin 6mg Tablet? Ivermectin 6mg is an oral antiparasitic medicine that kills parasitic worms, mites, and lice by targeting their nervous system. It works by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of parasites — causing paralysis and death of the parasite. It does not work against viruses or bacteria, and is not approved for COVID-19 treatment or prevention.
What is Ivermectin 6mg Used For?
- Intestinal Strongyloidiasis — roundworm (threadworm) infection caused by Strongyloides stercoralis (آنتوں کا کیڑا)
- Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) — parasitic infection caused by Onchocerca volvulus affecting skin and eyes
- Scabies — skin mite infestation, especially crusted (Norwegian) scabies when creams fail (خارش)
- Head lice (Pediculosis) — resistant lice infestations not responding to topical treatments (جوئیں)
- Other parasitic infections — including ascariasis (roundworm) and lymphatic filariasis, as directed by doctor
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Dose is based on body weight. Always take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
| Indication | Usual Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Strongyloidiasis | 200 mcg/kg body weight | Single dose |
| Onchocerciasis | 150 mcg/kg body weight | Single dose (repeat as directed) |
| Scabies | 200 mcg/kg body weight | Single dose, repeat after 1–2 weeks |
| Head lice | 400 mcg/kg body weight | Single dose, repeat after 7–10 days |
- Take on an empty stomach with a full glass of water
- Do not eat for at least 2 hours after taking the tablet
- Your doctor will calculate the exact dose based on your weight
Active Ingredient
| Ingredient | Strength per Tablet |
|---|---|
| Ivermectin | 6mg |
Who Should NOT Take Ivermectin?
- Known allergy to Ivermectin or any component of the tablet
- Children weighing less than 15kg
- Pregnancy — particularly first trimester; consult doctor
- Patients with meningitis or conditions affecting the blood-brain barrier
- Breastfeeding mothers — avoid during treatment and for 1 week after
Consult your doctor before use if you have: liver disease, HIV/AIDS, any immune system condition, or are taking medicines that affect the brain.
Side Effects
Common:
- Mild dizziness or headache
- Nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhoea
- Skin rash or itching (may be part of the body's reaction to dying parasites)
- Temporary swelling or tenderness in lymph nodes
Serious — seek medical attention immediately:
- Severe skin reaction — widespread rash, blistering, or peeling (یہ طبی ہنگامی صورتحال ہے)
- Neurological effects — confusion, loss of coordination, or seizures
- Eye problems — redness, pain, or vision changes (especially in river blindness treatment)
- Severe low blood pressure — dizziness on standing, fainting
Drug Interactions
| Medicine | Interaction |
|---|---|
| Warfarin (blood thinner) | Ivermectin may increase bleeding risk — INR monitoring needed |
| Barbiturates / Benzodiazepines | May increase CNS side effects of Ivermectin |
| Alcohol (شراب) | Increases dizziness and neurological side effects — avoid |
Storage Instructions
- Store below 30°C away from moisture and direct sunlight
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not use after expiry date on the pack
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does Ivermectin treat or prevent COVID-19? No — the FDA has not approved Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment or prevention. It is an antiparasitic medicine only and should not be used for viral infections.
Q: Is one dose of Ivermectin enough to cure the infection? For most infections a single dose is effective, but scabies and lice often require a second dose after 7–14 days — always follow your doctor's instructions.
Q: Can Ivermectin be taken with food? No — take on an empty stomach with water only. Food, especially fatty meals, increases absorption unpredictably and may raise the risk of side effects.
Q: Why do symptoms sometimes get worse after taking Ivermectin? A temporary worsening of itching, rash, or swelling can occur as the body reacts to dying parasites — this is called a Mazzotti reaction and is expected, not dangerous.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This description is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. Ivermectin is not approved for COVID-19.
DRAP Registered | Prescription Required (Rx) | Weight-based dosing — take on empty stomach — complete prescribed course