Keep Factually independent
Whether you agree or disagree with our analysis, these conversations matter for democracy. We don't take money from political groups - even a $5 donation helps us keep it that way.
What are the recommended human uses and approved dosages of ivermectin for specific conditions?
Executive summary
Ivermectin is an FDA‑approved antiparasitic drug for specific human uses — commonly dosed at about 150 micrograms (0.15 mg)/kg as a single oral dose for many parasitic infections, with weight‑based tablet dosing examples (e.g., 3 mg for 15–25 kg; 6 mg for 26–44 kg) noted in clinical references [1] [2]. Major public‑health bodies (FDA, NIH, WHO, EMA) and recent guideline reviews advise against using ivermectin for COVID‑19 outside clinical trials and warn about off‑label or veterinary use [3] [4] [5].
1. What is ivermectin approved to treat — and typical human dosages
Ivermectin is approved for several parasitic diseases in humans, including onchocerciasis (river blindness), strongyloidiasis (threadworms), and certain ectoparasitic infections; topical preparations (ivermectin 1% cream or lotions) are approved for dermatologic uses such as rosacea or lice [4] [6]. Oral dosing for systemic parasitic infections is weight‑based: clinical references give 0.15 mg/kg (150 mcg/kg) as a common single oral dose for adults and children ≥15 kg, with standard tablet weight bands (for example, 15–25 kg = 3 mg once; 26–44 kg = 6 mg once; 45–64 kg = 9 mg once; 65–84 kg = 12 mg once) and retreatment intervals that can range from 3 months to 12 months depending on the parasite and severity [1] [2] [6].
2. Variation by condition — single vs repeated dosing and special cases
For onchocerciasis and many soil‑transmitted helminth infections, ivermectin is often given as a single weight‑based oral dose that may be repeated (annual mass‑drug‑administration schedules commonly cite 0.15 mg/kg once yearly, with retreatment more frequently for heavy ocular infection) [1]. Crusted scabies or severe infestations may require multiple doses spaced 1–2 weeks apart [1]. Topical formulations (cream/lotion) are separate products and have distinct, local‑use regimens [6].
3. What authoritative bodies say about non‑approved uses (COVID‑19, cancer, etc.)
The FDA and major guideline panels say ivermectin is not authorized or approved to prevent or treat COVID‑19; clinical trial evidence has not shown consistent clinical benefit and some well‑conducted randomized trials found no reduction in hospitalizations or deaths [3] [5]. The NIH’s COVID‑19 Treatment Guidelines and the WHO/EMA likewise do not recommend routine ivermectin use for COVID‑19 outside clinical trials [4] [5]. Research into repurposing ivermectin for cancer exists (preclinical and early clinical reports), but this remains experimental and not an approved oncologic therapy; fact‑checking outlets and medical experts warn against substituting established cancer treatments with unproven regimens [7] [8].
4. Safety, interactions and harms from inappropriate dosing
Ivermectin is generally well tolerated at approved doses but can cause dizziness, hypotension, gastrointestinal symptoms and, rarely, serious neurologic events (encephalopathy) in certain parasitic infections or vulnerable patients; it is metabolized in the liver (CYP3A4) and can interact with other drugs such as warfarin [9] [2]. The FDA has documented cases of harm from people self‑medicating with veterinary formulations or taking excessive doses, and has cautioned against such use [3].
5. Off‑label use, misinformation and changing access
During and after the COVID‑19 pandemic, ivermectin became the focus of misinformation campaigns and political pressure that increased off‑label prescribing and consumer demand; some U.S. states have introduced laws to make it available over the counter, which public‑health experts and pharmacists have flagged as potentially reducing clinical oversight [10] [11] [12]. Fact‑checkers stress that ivermectin “should only be used as authorised; all other uses are not indicated” [7].
6. Practical guidance for patients and clinicians
Use ivermectin only for indications and dosages supported by product labeling or specialist guidance: weight‑based oral dosing (commonly ~0.15 mg/kg single dose) for parasitic infections and specified topical regimens for dermatologic indications [1] [2]. Do not self‑treat for COVID‑19 or cancer based on unverified protocols; authoritative agencies recommend enrollment in clinical trials if considering experimental use, and warn against veterinary products or unregulated sources [3] [7]. Available sources do not mention a universally recommended ivermectin dosage for cancer — clinical oncology repurposing is investigational and dose schedules vary by trial or protocol (not found in current reporting).
Limitations: this summary uses the provided sources only; dosing nuances, local approvals and product labeling can vary by country and by specific product — always consult a licensed clinician and the official product label for precise regimens [2] [1].