Anthelmintic » Ivermectin (eye-ver-MEK-tin)

It is used to treat river blindness (onchocerciasis) and a certain type of diarrhea (strongyloidiasis). It may also be used for some other kinds of worm infections.

Do not drink alcohol during treatment with ivermectin, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ivermectin is best taken as a single dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water on an empty stomach (1 hour before breakfast), unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

If you notice any of the symptoms listed below or any other symptoms which seem severe/persistent contact your doctor immediately.

difficulty breathing
eye or eyelid pain, irritation, redness or swelling
loss or change of vision
edness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
skin rash, hives or increased itching
yellowing of eyes or skin
unusual weakness or tiredness

Ivermectin is usually well tolerated and serious side effects are rare.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products.

An overdose of ivermectin may cause skin rash, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, shortness of breath, and numbness or tingling.

If an overdose of ivermectin is suspected, seek emergency medical attention.

Before taking ivermectin, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions that you have, especially liver disease.


Your doctor may also prescribe a corticosteroid (a cortisone-like medicine) for certain patients with river blindness, especially those with severe symptoms. This is to help reduce the inflammation caused by the death of the worms. If your doctor prescribes these two medicines together, it is important to take the corticosteroid along with ivermectin. Take them exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not miss any doses.

Since ivermectin is usually given as a one time dose, it is unlikely that you will miss a dose. However, you may need a return visit to your doctor to see if you need repeat doses to cure the infection.

Ivermectin is used to treat infections caused by certain parasites.

Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed.

Before you have any medical tests, tell the medical doctor in charge that you are taking this medicine. The results of some tests (blood or liver tests) may be affected by this medicine.

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits.