Here is the full overview of:
🧪 Ivermectin Tablet 12 mg
🔬 Classification
- Type: Antiparasitic agent
- Drug Class: Macrocyclic lactone (Avermectin)
- ATC Code: P02CF01
💊 Form & Strength
- Tablet: 12 mg
- Also available in 3 mg and 6 mg strengths
- Route: Oral only
📌 Indications / Uses
| Condition | Use |
|---|
| Strongyloidiasis | Intestinal worm (single dose) |
| Onchocerciasis | River blindness |
| Scabies (Crusted/Severe) | Often repeated after 7–14 days |
| Pediculosis (Head lice) | Alternative to topical treatment |
| Lymphatic Filariasis | Used in combination with albendazole/DEC |
| Cutaneous Larva Migrans | Off-label |
| COVID-19 | ⚠️ Not recommended (lack of clinical efficacy evidence) |
🧑⚕️ Dosage & Administration
✅ Weight-Based Dose:
- Standard dose: 150–200 mcg/kg
- A 12 mg tablet may be appropriate for body weight 50–70 kg, depending on the infection.
📆 General Regimens:
| Infection | Typical Dose | Repeat Needed? |
|---|
| Strongyloidiasis | Single 12 mg | No (usually) |
| Scabies (Severe) | 12 mg once | Repeat after 7–14 days |
| Filariasis | 12 mg + Albendazole | Yearly in MDA |
- Take on empty stomach with water
- Avoid alcohol during treatment
⚠️ Precautions
- Do not use in children <15 kg
- Caution in:
- Liver dysfunction
- Patients in Loa loa endemic areas
- Elderly patients
❌ Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ivermectin
- Severe liver impairment
- Pregnancy (use only if benefit outweighs risk)
- Use during breastfeeding: consult physician
🔄 Common Side Effects
| System | Effects |
|---|
| CNS | Dizziness, headache, drowsiness |
| GI | Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain |
| Skin | Rash, pruritus |
| Labs | Raised liver enzymes (rare) |
In filariasis: May cause Mazzotti reaction (fever, hypotension, rash due to dying microfilariae)
✅ Advantages
- Single-dose oral therapy
- Broad antiparasitic coverage
- Well-tolerated
