About Iverjohn

Active ingredient: Ivermectin

Therapeutic class: Antiparasitic (anthelmintic)

Iverjohn is a tablet that targets certain parasites living in the intestines, skin, or eyes. It works by disrupting the parasites' nerve and muscle function, which leads to paralysis and death of the parasites.

For fast access to related topics, see directions, side effects, or U.S. legal status.

Intended Uses

Iverjohn is prescribed for specific parasitic infections determined by a clinician. It is not an antibiotic and does not treat bacterial infections.

Only a licensed healthcare professional can decide whether Iverjohn is suitable for a particular infection and patient.

Available Strengths

Common strengths of Iverjohn tablets include:

  • 12 mg
  • 3 mg
  • 6 mg

Different conditions may require different single or repeated doses. Your prescriber will specify the exact regimen.

How to Take Iverjohn

Follow the prescription label exactly. Unless your clinician instructs otherwise:

  • Swallow tablets with a full glass of water.
  • Take on an empty stomach: at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not take with food unless your prescriber gives different instructions.
  • Take at the scheduled time(s). Do not take more often than directed.
  • Finish the full course even if you start to feel better.

Questions about timing or dose? Jump to missed dose or talk to your prescriber.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell your healthcare professional before starting Iverjohn if any of the following apply to you:

  • History of liver disease or abnormal liver tests
  • Asthma or significant breathing disorders
  • Previous allergic reaction to ivermectin or other medications
  • Pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
  • Possible exposure to Loa loa (West/Central Africa) or onchocerciasis; special monitoring may be needed
  • Child under 15 kg body weight, unless specifically prescribed by a clinician

Seek medical advice promptly if you experience new or worsening eye symptoms during treatment for eye-related parasites.

Do Not Use If

Do not take Iverjohn if you have a known allergy to ivermectin or any component of the formulation.

Possible Side Effects

Call your healthcare professional right away if you notice serious reactions. The list below is not exhaustive.

Serious reactions (seek urgent care):

  • Seizures
  • Severe skin reactions: blistering, peeling, or widespread rash (including in the mouth)
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; trouble breathing
  • Chest pain or a very fast/irregular heartbeat
  • Eye pain, marked redness, or swelling; changes in vision
  • Confusion, fainting, or severe dizziness
  • Uncontrolled urination or bowel movements
  • Fever with unusual swelling or tender glands

Mild to moderate effects (usually temporary; report if persistent or bothersome):

  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Headache
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Tremor
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle or joint aches
  • Tender glands in the neck, armpits, or groin

Some symptoms (such as fever, itching, or rash) can be due to the body reacting to dying parasites rather than the drug itself. Your clinician can help distinguish this.

Drug and Food Interactions

Important interactions include:

  • Warfarin and similar blood thinners: ivermectin may affect INR; closer monitoring may be needed.
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (for example ketoconazole, clarithromycin, some HIV protease inhibitors): may increase ivermectin levels.
  • Other medicines that cause dizziness or sedation: may enhance side effects.

Keep an updated medication list and share it with your prescriber and pharmacist.

If You Miss a Dose

If you forget a scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of your next dose. If it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not double up.

For one-time dosing regimens, ask your prescriber what to do if you miss the dose.

Overdose and Emergency Information

Suspected overdose requires immediate help. In the USA, call 911 for emergencies or contact Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.

Potential overdose symptoms include numbness or tingling, breathing difficulties, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, or seizures.

Storage and Handling

  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • Store tightly closed at room temperature, ideally below 30 C (86 F).
  • Do not use after the expiration date; dispose of unused tablets according to local guidance or pharmacy take-back programs.

Alternatives and Similar Medications

Depending on the specific parasite and your medical history, clinicians may choose a different therapy or combine treatments. Examples include:

  • Albendazole (Albenza and generics): broad-spectrum anthelmintic for several intestinal and tissue parasites.
  • Mebendazole (Emverm and generics): used for certain intestinal worm infections.
  • Permethrin topical 5% (Rx) or 1% (OTC shampoo): for scabies or head lice, respectively; topical, not oral.
  • Doxycycline: sometimes used as adjunct therapy for filarial infections by targeting Wolbachia bacteria associated with the parasites.
  • Topical ivermectin 1% cream: for rosacea; not interchangeable with oral ivermectin.

Choice of therapy is individualized. Discuss options with your clinician. For cost context, see U.S. pricing.

Typical Prices in the USA (Approximate, Cash Pay)

Prices vary widely by pharmacy, region, and insurance coverage. The ranges below are rough estimates in USD as of recent market observations:

  • Ivermectin tablets (Iverjohn/generic, 3 mg strength): about $20 to $120 for a common short course, depending on tablet count and pharmacy discount programs.
  • Albendazole (200 mg): can be costly; roughly $150 to $600 for a typical course, though coupons or patient assistance may lower cost.
  • Mebendazole: often expensive in the U.S.; a treatment course may range $200 to $500+.
  • Permethrin 5% cream (Rx): roughly $30 to $80 per 60 g tube; 1% OTC shampoo for lice may be $10 to $20.
  • Doxycycline (generic): commonly $5 to $25 for a short course at many pharmacies.

Check local pharmacies, reputable discount programs, or your insurer's formulary for precise, current pricing.