Safe and effective consumption of Ivermectin relies on choosing the correct dosage for each person and their particular problem. The common dosages of Ivermectin tablets that you can currently purchase are 3 mg, 6 mg, and 12 mg. Depending on the patient’s weight, it’s possible to decide whether one needs a 12-mg tablet, a combination of 6 mg and 3 mg, or another option.
What are the dosage recommendations?
The drug is prescribed to adults for the treatment of Strongyloidiasis Onchocerciasis, Filariasis, Scabies, Ascariasis, and Cutaneous Larva Migrans. In children, it can be prescribed to treat Filariasis. Regardless of the health issue, the exact dosage of Ivermectin is determined based on an individual’s weight.
Onchocerciasis
For the treatment of onchocerciasis, the dosage is 0.15 mg/kg. It means that those weighing from 15 to 25 kg should take a 3-mg dosage, from 26 to 44 kg – 6 mg, from 45 to 64 kg – 9 mg, and 65 to 84 kg – 12 mg, and so on. Those weighing over 85 kg can use 3-mg tablets to adjust the dosage. In most cases, a patient with onchocerciasis should take one dosage every 12 months.
Ascariasis
To overcome ascariasis, an individual should take a single dose of 0.2 mg/kg.
Strongyloidiasis
To treat strongyloidiasis, a single dosage of 0.2 mg/kg is prescribed to adult patients.
Cutaneous Larva Migrans
Those diagnosed with Cutaneous larva migrans have to take a one-time dosage of Ivermectin that is calculated using the 0.2 mg/kg formula.
Scabies
The treatment of scabies requires the same dosage of 0.2 mg/kg but a single dosage is repeated after two weeks.
Filariasis
In the case of filariasis, the dosage is 0.2 mg/kg taken once. To overcome Bancroftian filariasis, the dosage is 0.4 mg/kg and it should be repeated once a year.
What are the precautions when using Ivermectin?
Some of the precautions to keep in mind before starting the treatment include the following:
- Ivermectin should be avoided if you are allergic to any components.
- The drug is not administered to children weighing under 15 kg.
- It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Taking Ivermectin with Warfarin should be avoided, as this can cause drug interactions.
- Those diagnosed with bronchial asthma should not take Ivermectin, because the drug can make this condition worse.
How to take Ivermectin?
Available in the form of tablets, Ivermectin should be taken as a single dose with a glass of water on an empty stomach. You should take the drug as recommended by your medical specialist because you may require an additional dosage depending on your condition.