Drug Name: Ivermectin | Drug Class: Antiparasitic / Anthelmintic | Brand Reference: Stromectol 3mg (Merck); Ivecop 3, Soolantra 3mg, Iverhuman (Indian generics) | Indication: Strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, scabies — paediatric and low-weight adult dosing | Standard Dose: 200mcg/kg single dose — 3mg tablet precise for patients 15–20kg (children); two for 30–35kg
Quick Answer — What is ivermectin 3mg used for?
Ivermectin 3mg is the paediatric and low-weight adult formulation of ivermectin, an antiparasitic used for scabies, strongyloidiasis, and onchocerciasis. At the standard 200mcg/kg dose, a 3mg tablet is appropriate for children weighing approximately 15–20kg. Multiple tablets are combined to achieve the correct dose for heavier patients. It is the same medicine as higher-strength formulations — only the tablet size differs.
Ivermectin 3mg Tablets – Antiparasitic / Anthelmintic
Ivermectin 3mg Tablets contains Ivermectin, a antiparasitic / anthelmintic. It is indicated for strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, scabies — paediatric and low-weight adult dosing. WHO Essential Medicine; paediatric dosing confirmed in WHO deworming guidelines 2023.
Product Information
| Attribute |
Details |
| Generic Name |
Ivermectin |
| Drug Class |
Antiparasitic / Anthelmintic |
| Brand Reference |
Stromectol 3mg (Merck); Ivecop 3, Soolantra 3mg (Indian generics) |
| Primary Indication |
Strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, scabies — paediatric and low-weight adult dosing |
| Standard Dose |
200mcg/kg single dose — 3mg tablet precise for patients 15–20kg (children); two for 30–35kg |
| Dosage Form |
Tablet |
| Route of Administration |
Oral |
| Prescription Required |
Yes |
| Evidence Base |
WHO Essential Medicine; paediatric dosing confirmed in WHO deworming guidelines 2023 |
How It Works
Binds glutamate-gated chloride channels in parasite nerve/muscle cells causing paralysis. This mechanism of action makes Ivermectin effective against strongyloidiasis, onchocerciasis, scabies — paediatric and low-weight adult dosing.
People Also Ask
Can children take ivermectin 3mg?
Yes — ivermectin 3mg is specifically suitable for children. WHO recommends ivermectin for children weighing 15kg or more (approximately 5 years of age). Dosing is 200mcg/kg; a 15kg child takes 1×3mg tablet, a 30kg child takes 2×3mg tablets. Ivermectin is not recommended in children under 15kg.
How many 3mg ivermectin tablets for an adult?
A standard 70kg adult would need approximately 4–5 tablets of 3mg to achieve the 200mcg/kg dose (70kg × 200mcg = 14,000mcg = 14mg). For adult dosing, the 6mg or 12mg strength is more practical. The 3mg formulation is primarily designed for paediatric use.
What is ivermectin 3mg used for in children?
In children, ivermectin 3mg treats strongyloidiasis (intestinal threadworm), scabies, head lice, and onchocerciasis. It is a WHO Essential Medicine for tropical parasite control programmes. Children under 15kg (approximately under 5 years) should not receive ivermectin.
Is ivermectin 3mg the same as 6mg and 12mg tablets?
Yes — all three are the same drug (ivermectin). Only the tablet strength differs, allowing for flexible weight-based dosing. The 3mg tablet is designed for precise paediatric dosing; the 6mg and 12mg are more convenient for adults. All should be taken on an empty stomach.
What are the side effects of ivermectin 3mg in children?
In children, ivermectin commonly causes mild, transient reactions including headache, dizziness, skin rash, and (in onchocerciasis treatment) a Mazzotti-type reaction from dying microfilariae — fever, itching, rash. These reactions indicate the drug is working. Serious adverse effects are rare at therapeutic doses.
Storage & Handling
Store at room temperature (15–30°C) away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
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