Ivermectin Dosage: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been prescribed ivermectin, the first thing you’ll wonder about is the right dose. Getting the dose right matters because too little won’t work and too much can cause unwanted side effects. Ivermectin is used for a range of infections, from river blindness to certain skin conditions, and each use has its own dosage rule. Below you’ll find the most common dosing guidelines, how to adjust them for body weight, and safety pointers to keep you on track.

Standard Dosage Guidelines

For most parasitic infections, doctors start with 0.15 mg per kilogram of body weight, taken as a single dose. For tougher cases like strongyloidiasis, the dose often goes up to 0.2 mg/kg, still given once. If you weigh 70 kg (about 154 lb), the standard 0.15 mg/kg dose translates to 10.5 mg of ivermectin. Tablets usually come in 3 mg or 6 mg strengths, so you’d take one 6 mg tablet and half of a 6 mg tablet (or a 3 mg tablet plus a half‑tablet) to hit that number.

Some conditions require a repeat dose after a week. For example, when treating scabies in adults, doctors may give 0.2 mg/kg on day 1 and repeat the same dose on day 8. Children under 15 kg are usually given a lower dose, often 0.2 mg/kg, but the exact amount should be confirmed by a pediatrician.

If you have liver problems, the dose may need to be reduced because ivermectin is processed in the liver. In those cases, doctors typically cut the dose by about one‑third and monitor you closely. Always tell your doctor about any liver issues before starting treatment.

Safety Tips and Common Mistakes

Take ivermectin on an empty stomach unless your doctor says otherwise. Food can lower absorption, meaning you might not get the full effect. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; crushing or chewing can alter how the drug is released.

Don’t double‑dose if you miss a day. Instead, wait until the next scheduled dose and continue as directed. Doubling up can increase the risk of nausea, dizziness, and skin rash.

Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children—accidental ingestion can be serious.

Watch for side effects like mild headache, mild fever, or a temporary rash. If you experience severe dizziness, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, seek medical help right away.

Lastly, always double‑check the tablet strength before you take it. Mistaking a 6 mg tablet for a 3 mg one can double your intended dose. If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist to confirm the amount you should take.

Following these simple steps—calculating the dose by weight, respecting timing, and watching for side effects—helps you use ivermectin safely and get the best results. Have any doubts? Talk to your healthcare provider before you start, and keep this guide handy for reference.