Ivermectin 12 mg

Medically Reviewed by Henry V

 Dr. Henry V

Qualification: PharmD

Experience: 14+ Years in Clinical Practice Expert in reviewing pharmaceutical and health-related content for medical accuracy. View more

What is ivermectin 120 mg?

Ivermectin 12 mg is a prescription antiparasitic medication commonly prescribed for scabies treatment in adults when recommended by a qualified healthcare provider. It contains ivermectin, a well-established antiparasitic agent that works by paralyzing and eliminating the microscopic mites responsible for scabies. By reducing the number of live mites, the medication helps relieve persistent itching, skin irritation, redness, and the spread of infestation. Although scabies is one of its common therapeutic uses, Ivermectin 12 mg may also be prescribed to treat certain parasitic infections, depending on the patient's medical condition and diagnosis.

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the outer layer of the skin and lays eggs. This often leads to intense itching that is typically worse at night, along with a rash and small bumps or burrow marks. In some cases, topical medications alone may not be sufficient, especially in crusted scabies, widespread infestations, or situations where topical treatment is difficult to apply. In such cases, healthcare providers may recommend oral Ivermectin 12 mg as part of the treatment plan.

Uses of Ivermectin 12 mg

Ivermectin 12 mg may be prescribed to:

• Treat scabies, including severe or crusted scabies when oral treatment is considered appropriate.
• Eliminate scabies mites and help reduce the spread of infestation.
• Relieve symptoms associated with scabies, including persistent itching and skin irritation.
• Reduce the likelihood of reinfestation when combined with appropriate hygiene measures.
• Treat selected parasitic infections, such as intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, under medical supervision.

The medication should only be used for conditions diagnosed by a healthcare professional. The recommended dosage and treatment schedule vary depending on the infection, body weight, and overall health status.

How Ivermectin 12 mg Works

Ivermectin belongs to a class of medicines known as antiparasitic agents. It works by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels located in the nerve and muscle cells of susceptible parasites and mites. This action increases the flow of chloride ions into the cells, causing paralysis and eventual death of the organisms.

Once the parasites are unable to survive, the body's natural immune system gradually removes them. Although the medication kills the mites, itching may continue for several days or even weeks because the skin is still healing from the allergic reaction triggered by the infestation. This does not necessarily mean the treatment has failed.

Benefits of Ivermectin 12 mg

Ivermectin 12 mg offers several advantages when used under medical supervision:

• Effective oral treatment for scabies.
• Helps eliminate the mites responsible for the infestation.
• Reduces itching, redness, and skin discomfort as healing progresses.
• Convenient tablet formulation for patients who cannot use topical therapies.
• May be used in cases of crusted scabies or widespread infestation.
• Can help reduce the risk of transmission when combined with appropriate hygiene practices.
• Also effective against selected parasitic infections when prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Dosage and Administration

Always take Ivermectin 12 mg exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.

General recommendations include:

• Take the tablet on an empty stomach with a full glass of water.
• Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing unless instructed otherwise.
• The dose is usually based on body weight and the condition being treated.
• Some patients may require a repeat dose after several days or weeks, depending on the severity of the infestation and clinical response.
• Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

To improve treatment success, wash clothing, towels, bedding, and personal items in hot water, and follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding treatment of close household contacts.

Possible Side Effects

Like all prescription medicines, Ivermectin 12 mg may cause side effects, although many people tolerate it well.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Muscle or joint pain

Serious Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin rash
• Vision changes
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Loss of coordination

Some symptoms may occur as the body reacts to dying parasites rather than the medicine itself.

Precautions

Before taking Ivermectin 12 mg, inform your healthcare provider if you:

• Have liver disease.
• Have kidney problems.
• Have a weakened immune system.
• Have a history of neurological disorders.
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• Are breastfeeding.
• Have allergies to ivermectin or any inactive ingredients in the tablet.

Your healthcare provider will determine whether Ivermectin is appropriate based on your medical history and current medications.

Important Information

For successful scabies treatment, medication alone may not completely prevent reinfestation. Household members and close physical contacts may also require evaluation and treatment, even if they do not have symptoms. Proper cleaning of clothing, bedding, towels, and frequently used fabrics is recommended to reduce the chance of mites spreading to others or causing another infestation.

Avoid sharing clothing, towels, or bedding until treatment has been completed. Continue to follow your healthcare provider's instructions throughout the treatment period.