Ivermectin: What It Is and How It Works

Ivermectin is a medication that fights parasites. Doctors prescribe it for things like river blindness, strongyloidiasis, and scabies. The drug stops the parasite’s nerves from working, which kills or immobilizes them. Because it targets a wide range of bugs, people often hear about ivermectin in news stories outside the clinic.

While some have tried using it for viral infections, health agencies say there isn’t solid proof it works that way. Stick to approved uses unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Common Medical Uses

The main jobs of ivermectin are:

• River blindness (onchocerciasis): a single dose can clear the infection for years.
• Strongyloidiasis: two doses a week apart usually do the trick.
• Scabies and lice: cream or lotion applied to skin kills the bugs fast.

If you have any of these conditions, your doctor will pick a dose based on weight. For adults it’s often 200 µg per kilogram, taken as a single oral tablet. Kids get a lower amount, calculated the same way.

Safety Tips & Buying Online

Ivermectin is safe for most people when used correctly, but you should watch out for a few things:

• Side effects: mild itching, nausea, or dizziness are common. Severe reactions like low blood pressure are rare.
• Drug interactions: avoid mixing with certain blood thinners or anti‑seizure meds without checking a doctor.
• Poor quality pills: buying from shady sites can land you with fake or wrong‑strength tablets. Always use a licensed pharmacy that asks for a prescription.

If you need ivermectin, the safest route is to get it through your local pharmacy or a reputable online service that requires a valid prescription. Look for clear contact info, a physical address, and reviews that mention reliable delivery.

Some people look for alternatives because of cost or availability. Common substitutes include albendazole, moxidectin, and permethrin (topical). Each works differently, so talk to your doctor before swapping drugs.Bottom line: ivermectin is a powerful antiparasitic when used as directed. Stick to approved doses, watch for side effects, and never buy from sources that don’t ask for a prescription. If you’re unsure about any step, a quick call to your pharmacist can clear things up.