Ivermectin (By mouth)

Introduction

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

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach with a full glass (8 ounces) of 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:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

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

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor 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.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Eye or eyelid irritation, pain, redness, or swelling.
• Fainting.
• Fever.
• Joint pain.
• Severe itching, rash, or hives.
• Swelling or tenderness under your arms, in your neck, or around your groin.

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

• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
• Dizziness.
• Mild rash or itching.
• Tiredness or weakness.

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

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088