Ivermectin (By mouth)

Ivermectin (eye-ver-MEK-tin)

Treats river blindness, threadworms, and other kinds of worm infections. This medicine is an anthelmintic.

Brand Name(s):

Stromectol

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. Swallow the tablet with water.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Some medicines can affect how ivermectin works. Tell your doctor if you are using blood thinners (including warfarin).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have asthma.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Eye, skin, or other serious reactions (including Mazzotti reaction), in patients treated for river blindness
  • Serious brain and nerve problems.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

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
• Change or loss of consciousness, confusion, severe sleepiness
• Eye or eyelid irritation, pain, redness, or swelling
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
• Fever, joint or muscle pain, skin rash unusual tiredness or weakness
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• 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:

• Constipation

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

Last Updated: 12/4/2023