Stromectol Medication Guide
What is Stromectol/Ivermectin?
Stromectol contains ivermectin, an antiparasitic agent used to treat various parasitic infections. It works by interfering with the nerve and muscle functions of parasites, causing paralysis and death.
Available forms: 3 mg tablets
Brand name: Stromectol (also sold as generic ivermectin)
What is Ivermectin used for?
Stromectol treats several parasitic infections, including:
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Onchocerciasis
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Strongyloidiasis
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Certain types of scabies
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Other parasitic infections, as diagnosed by your healthcare professional
How to take Stromectol
Dosage: Usually 200 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. Your doctor will work out the exact dose for you.
Administration:
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Take with a full glass of water
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On an empty stomach (at least one hour before or two hours after eating)
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Swallow tablets whole — do not crush or chew
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Typically given as a single dose, though some cases may need extra doses
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you recall. If close to your next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up.
How it works
Ivermectin attaches to specific channels in parasite nerve and muscle cells, causing chloride ions to rush in. This leads to paralysis and death, targeting parasites without harming human cells.
Common side effects
Generally mild and short-lived:
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Dizziness
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Nausea
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Diarrhoea
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Fatigue
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Abdominal pain
Contact your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Who shouldn’t take Ivermectin
Avoid if you:
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Are allergic to ivermectin or any tablet ingredients
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Have certain neurological conditions
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Have severe liver problems
Drug interactions
Tell your doctor about all medications, because Stromectol can interact with:
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Warfarin (may change blood clotting)
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Antifungal drugs
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Anti-seizure medicines
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Other drugs processed by the liver
Special populations
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Category C — only if clearly necessary. Ivermectin passes into breast milk. Discuss risks with your doctor.
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Children: Suitable for those weighing 15 kg or more, dosed by weight.
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Elderly: Usable but may require more monitoring due to possible reduced organ function.
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Kidney problems: Dose usually unchanged.
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Liver problems: May need adjusted dosing and closer observation.
Storage
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Keep at room temperature, not above 30°C
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Store in original packaging, protect from light and moisture
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Keep away from children and pets
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Don’t use past expiry date
Monitoring
Your healthcare professional might arrange follow-ups to:
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Check how symptoms improve
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Run lab tests
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Assess if treatment is working
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Adjust doses if necessary
How the body processes Stromectol
After taking it, ivermectin is absorbed well, reaching peak blood levels around 4 hours later. The liver breaks it down, and most is eliminated through the faeces.
Public health impact
Stromectol has helped reduce parasitic infections globally. It’s part of mass treatment campaigns for diseases such as onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis.
Off-label use
Some healthcare providers may prescribe Stromectol off-label for antiviral purposes, although evidence is limited and not definitive. It’s sometimes used in research or experimental settings against certain viral infections. Always discuss the risks and benefits thoroughly with your doctor before using it for anything other than approved indications.
Important information
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Stick to the prescribed doses
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Don’t miss follow-up visits
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Report any side effects promptly
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Use only under medical supervision
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Off-label uses require strict doctor oversight
Regulatory approval
Approved by the US FDA, EMA, and other agencies for specific parasitic infections. Check local health authority guidelines for details.
This guide is for reference only. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.