Ivermectin Dosage for Humans: Safe Use, Dosage Guide
Ivermectin is a medicine that can be prescribed to people for certain kinds of parasitic infections. Because different factors are involved including type of infection and weight, there is a range of dosages, and human safety and efficacy depend on knowing these ranges.
This guide will provide an overview of how ivermectin dosage, side effects, and the safety measures that must be taken.
Key Takeaways
- Ivermectin is dosed according to the type of infection and body weight of the patient.
- A single dose for the treatment of Strongyloidiasis can be in the range of 200 mcg/kg.
- Singal dose for the treatment of Onchocerciasis can be in the range of 150 mcg/kg.
- The medication should be taken with water and on an empty stomach.
- It is common to need to take repeated doses.
- The FDA has concluded that there is not enough evidence to determine if Ivermectin is an effective treatment for COVID-19.
- There should be careful consideration before ivermectin is used.
What Is Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic medicine that that is prescribed to people for certain types of worm and parasitic infections. It can be found as a generic medicine as well as the brand name Stromectol.
Ivermectin works to eliminate parasitic infections in the body that are not self-limited to die off. It does so by paralyzing the worm, removing its ability to move or function.
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Common Uses of Ivermectin
Ivermectin can be used to treat the following:
- Strongyloidiasis and other parasitic infections of the intestine
- Onchocerciasis
- Scabies
- Lice
- Rosacea
- Lymphatic filariasis
Although many parasitic infections can be treated with ivermectin, it is not appropriate for all parasitic infections. Before using ivermectin, a physician must confirm the diagnosis.
How Is Ivermectin Dosage Determined?
Determining the appropriate Ivermectin dosage for humans is a medical decision contingent on several medical factors. These factors include:
- Patient’s weight
- Patient’s age
- Nature of the medical condition
- Symptoms
- Liver condition
- Coexisting medical conditions
- Other pharmaceuticals being taken
Unlike most over-the-counter medicines that treat worms, Ivermectin dosage is individualized. Self-medication, or even a shot-in-the-dark guess at a dose, can lead either to no treatment at all, or an adverse reaction.
Standard Ivermectin Dosage Overview
Ivermectin tablets are typically sold in 3 mg strength. The majority of the time, a patient is required to take multiple tablets at one time.
The average one-time ivermectin dosage instruction is as follows:
Typical One-Time Ivermectin Dosage
Condition | Standard Dose |
Strongyloidiasis | 200 mcg/kg |
Onchocerciasis | 150 mcg/kg |
For the most part, one single dose is sufficient. In other instances, the medical condition, and the patient’s immune system, may dictate that the patient take the medication multiple times.
Understanding Ivermectin Dosage Calculations
Ivermectin is measured in mcg/kg.
- 1 mcg = 0.001 mg
- 1 kg = approximately 2.2 pounds
Ivermectin Dosage Example
Therefore, for the Ivermectin 3 mg strength tablets, a 70 kg strongyloidiasis patient would take:
200 mcg/kg x 70 kg = 14,000 mcg or 14 mg
Therefore, this patient would take about 5 of the Ivermectin 3 mg strength tablets.
Doctors have some leeway to slightly modify those calculations, if and depending on their clinical judgment.
Ivermectin Dosage by Body Weight
| Body Weight | Strongyloidiasis Dose (200 mcg/kg) | Onchocerciasis Dose (150 mcg/kg) |
|---|---|---|
15–24 kg | 1 tablet | 1 tablet |
25–35 kg | 2 tablets | 1–2 tablets |
36–50 kg | 3 tablets | 2–3 tablets |
51–65 kg | 4 tablets | 3–4 tablets |
66–79 kg | 5 tablets | 4 tablets |
80+ kg | Calculated individually | Calculated individually |
Ivermectin Dosage for Children
Ivermectin is formally indicated for those weighing at least 15 kg (33 lbs) to treat Strongyloidiasis and Onchocerciasis.
- Strongyloidiasis: 200 mcg/kg
- Onchocerciasis: 150 mcg/kg
Children under 15 kg require a health provider to authorize administration.
How to Take Ivermectin Properly
If you adhere to the guidelines for administering Ivermectin, you will improve safety and efficacy of the treatment.
General Considerations
- Always follow the prescribed direction to administer Ivermectin.
- Tablets must be swallowed whole.
- Ivermectin must be taken on an empty stomach.
- Tablets must never be chewed or crushed.
- Ivermectin must never be taken again unless the provider directs to repeat the dose.
- Dosing must never be done by the individual.
Missed Dose
If the Ivermectin dose is missed and you have already eaten, then wait 1–2 hours before taking the did during fasting. Do not take 2 doses to catch up.
Side Effects Related to Incorrect Dosage
If Ivermectin is taken as prescribed, the majority of the side effects will be temporary and mild.
Side effects may be of concern if Ivermectin is not dosed chronically
Side Effects of Ivermectin
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Rash
Severe Effects
Seek immediate help if you experience
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Hypotension
- Life Threatening Allergic Reaction
Improper dosing and abuse expose the patient to a high risk of adverse effects.
Who Should Be Careful with Ivermectin?
A few special populations require extra caution.
- High-Risk Groups
- Older people
- Pregnant or lactating women
- People with liver disease
- People with compromised immune systems
- Young children
Drug Interactions to Know
It is also believed that Ivermectin interacts with these medications:
- Thinners
- Sedatives
- Anti-seizure medications
- Immunosuppressive drugs
Combining such parasitic drugs may only be performed if prescribed.
The medical community offers the following combinations:
- Ivermectin and Fenbendazole
- Ivermectin and Mebendazole
Even these combinations should only be approved by medical professionals.
What Happens if You Take Too Much Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is linked to increased side effects and dangerous symptoms when overdosed.
These symptoms may include:
- Profound dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Disorientation
- Respiratory distress
- Convulsions
If an overdose occurs you should do the following:
- Call your physician
- Call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222
- Seek emergency medical help.
⚠ Important Warnings
You should only take ivermectin once you get a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor will take the time to weigh the risks of prescribing it to you and the benefits of you taking it. Mistreatment of ivermectin can cause serious unintentional health consequences.
Final Words
Ivermectin is a very safe and effective antiparasitic that should only be taken with a medical provider. The recommended dosages depend on the person’s weight and specific infectious disease.
As with many parasitic infections, a single Ivermectin dose may suffice, but more dosing or therapeutic monitoring may be warranted.
Many side effects are linked to the improper use of Ivermectin, and failing to follow a medical provider’s instructions may also render a treatment ineffective.
The proper diagnosis, dosing, and precautions are the most important things to consider to ensure the most effective treatment outcomes.