Ivermectin: What It Treats and What You Should Know

Ivermectin is a prescription antiparasitic medicine used to treat certain worm infections in people. Doctors prescribe it for conditions like strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, and veterinarians use different formulations for animals. If you’ve heard about ivermectin in the news, you might be confused about when it helps and when it can hurt. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you oriented.

How ivermectin works and common uses

Ivermectin paralyzes and kills parasites by targeting their nervous system. In humans, it’s effective at doses prescribed for specific parasitic infections. It’s not a broad antibiotic or antiviral, so it won’t treat things like the flu or most viral infections. Doctors sometimes use it off-label for other issues, but that should only happen when a clinician explains the risks and benefits to you.

Never use livestock or pet formulations on people. Veterinary products often have higher concentrations and different inactive ingredients. Using them can cause serious harm.

Safety, side effects, and interactions

Common side effects are mild: nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, or skin rash. More serious reactions are rare but possible, especially if you take the wrong dose or mix it with other drugs. Ivermectin is processed by the liver, so it can interact with medicines that affect liver enzymes. If you take blood thinners, certain antidepressants, or strong enzyme inhibitors, tell your doctor—there can be important interactions.

Pregnant or breastfeeding people should talk to their clinician before taking ivermectin. Also speak up if you have a weakened immune system or neurological symptoms. If you notice sudden confusion, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing after a dose, seek medical help right away.

Dosage depends on the condition being treated and on your weight. That’s why you need a prescription and a provider’s guidance. Self-dosing based on what you read online is risky.

Thinking of buying ivermectin online? Use caution. Some sites sell human-grade medicine; others sell animal products or counterfeit pills. Our site has a guide called “How to Safely Verify Online Pharmacies” that walks you through checking credentials, looking for proper licensing, and spotting red flags. Also read pharmacies’ shipping policies and return rules before you order.

Want more practical reading? Look at trusted articles about safe online buying and about how to check a pharmacy’s certifications. If your question is about a different drug or how to order prescriptions online, we have step-by-step posts that explain what to check and how to protect your health and wallet.

Bottom line: ivermectin can be a useful medicine for certain parasites when prescribed and dosed correctly. Don’t use veterinary products, don’t self-prescribe, and always confirm the pharmacy you use is legitimate. Ask your doctor if ivermectin is right for you and follow their plan closely.