Broad view
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medicine commonly sold under brand names such as Stromectol. In Australia it is used to treat certain parasitic infections including strongyloidiasis and scabies. It is not effective against viruses or bacteria.
Oral tablet strengths frequently supplied include 3 mg, 6 mg and 12 mg. The drug belongs to the anthelmintic class and contains the active compound ivermectin.
This guide covers practical dose and safety aspects to address, interplay between partiess span conversations, gestures, and feedback. and common ancillary choices. For quick navigation use the links to how to take charge, harmful effects, interpersonal dialogue and exchanges create opportunities for collaboration. and the status of being legal.
Before you go ahead
Discuss treatment with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following apply:
- Allergy to ivermectin or any inactive tablet ingredients
- Known liver disease or abnormal liver tests
- Chronic lung disease such as severe asthma
- Pregnancy and planning to conceive or to breastfeed
Additional caution is advised for people with very heavy parasite loads or those returning from areas where filarial infections are common. If unsure, raise these issues with the prescriber and confirm that ivermectin is appropriate under Australian prescribing rules (see the legal standing in Australia).
Steps to take ivermectin
Always follow the instructions on your prescription. Typical practical advice includes:
- Take tablets on an empty stomach with a full glass of water unless your prescriber specifies otherwise.
- Ideally take at least 30 minutes before food or wait two hours after eating.
- Do not change the dose or frequency without medical advice; complete the full course unless told to stop.
- The child cohort are dosed by weight and must be treated under a pediatrician or qualified prescriber.
If you suspect an a drug overdose seek urgent help. In Australia contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 or head in the direction of the nearest emergency department.
After taking ivermectin you may feel dizzy or notice visual disturbance. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you and seek medical advice if symptoms occur. For related information see indirect effects.
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Dose missed
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the the dose was skipped and continue as normal. Do not double the dose to compensate for a tablet you missed.
Possible adverse reactions and timing for seeking help
Some reactions can be serious and need urgent medical attention. Seek immediate help if you experience:
- Severe allergic signs such as widespread rash, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or breathing trouble
- Marked dizziness, fainting, chest pain or new heart rhythm problems
- Sudden eye pain, swelling, redness or significant changes in vision
- Neurological events such as seizures, marked confusion, or loss of bladder or bowel control
- Fever with extensive blistering or peeling of the skin
Less severe but common effects that should be reported if persistent include:
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or reduced appetite
- Watery stools or constipation
- Tension type a throbbing headache, tremor or lightheadedness
- Discomfort in the muscles or joints
- Lymph nodes enlarged or tender
If you are unsure whether a symptom is related to treatment, contact your prescriber or pharmacist. For advice on preventing spread of some infections during treatment see monitoring of operational health to ensure hygiene.
Drug people engage through a series of mutual interactions. and safety information
Ivermectin can be affected by medications that alter liver metabolism or P-glycoprotein function. Tell your clinician about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, herbal remedies and recreational drugs.
- Strong CYP3A4 or P-glycoprotein inhibitors such as some azole antifungals (for example ketoconazole, itraconazole) and some macrolide antibiotics may raise ivermectin levels
- Certain antiretroviral agents used in HIV care can alter metabolism pathways
- Oral anticoagulants such as warfarin may require closer real time monitoring of systems while on ivermectin
- Other drugs that cause drowsiness or affect coordination may increase the risk of falls or accidents
The lists above are not exhaustive. Always review your full medication list with the prescriber or pharmacist in advance of starting treatment.
Vigilant monitoring, follow-up and cleanliness measures
Arrange follow-up with your healthcare provider to confirm the infection has resolved. Some parasites require repeat testing or additional doses.
To reduce the risk of spreading scabies or becoming re-infected during treatment:
- Change and wash underwear and bed linen frequently while symptomatic or being treated
- Maintain regular hand washing, clean under fingernails and shower regularly
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared bathroom areas
- Household and close contacts may need assessment and treatment in outbreaks
If you have questions about isolation, contact tracing or workplace exclusion, consult your treating clinician or local public health direction and insight.
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- Keep medicines out of reach and out of the sight of children.
- Store at room temperature below 30 C (86 F) in the original package with the container closed.
- Do not use tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack. Ask your pharmacist about safe disposal of unused medicine.
Additional options and approximate retail prices in Australia (AUD)
Costs depend on brand, pack size, whether the medicine is subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), paired with the pharmacy chosen. The figures below are approximate ranges for non-subsidised retail purchases and intended for general orientation. Check Services Australia or your pharmacist for current PBS co-payments and exact retail prices.
Typical ivermectin price bands
- Generic ivermectin tablets (for example 3 mg): roughly AUD 25 to AUD 90 for a standard treatment course depending on quantity and retailer.
- Branded Stromectol preparations: often higher than generics, commonly around AUD 40 to AUD 120 for comparable quantities.
Other treatments and estimated costs
- Permethrin 5% cream (topical, usual first-line for scabies): about AUD 10 to AUD 25 per tube.
- Benzyl benzoate lotion (topical scabicide): commonly AUD 8 to AUD 20 per bottle.
- Albendazole (broad-spectrum anthelmintic): approximately AUD 10 to AUD 60 depending on dose and brand.
- Mebendazole (used for some intestinal worms): roughly AUD 10 to AUD 20 per pack.
- Praziquantel administration (for tapeworms or fluke infections): price varies widely, often AUD 50 to AUD 100 or more depending on dose.
Choice of therapy depends on the specific parasite, severity of disease, pregnancy status and patient preference. Discuss options, undesired reactions and likely costs with your prescriber or pharmacist. See current legal status for information on access and personal importation rules.
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Official status and access in Australia
In Australia ivermectin (including branded Stromectol) is classified as a Schedule 4 medicine, meaning it is available only with a prescription from an Australian-registered prescriber.
- Use for unapproved markers pointing to is a clinical decision and should be documented by the prescriber with appropriate oversight.
- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Personal Import Plan Outline may allow individuals to import up to three months supply for personal use if conditions are met, typically including a valid prescription and compliance with customs rules. Importing beyond permitted amounts or without correct documentation may breach Australian law.
- Direct-to-consumer advertising of Schedule 4 medicines is restricted; public-facing promotion is therefore limited by law.
For current regulatory details consult the TGA website, your pharmacist or prescribing clinician. If cost is a concern, ask whether your prescription is eligible for PBS subsidy and compare prices between medication shops.
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