Cheap Stromectol or 5 safe effective alternatives: pricing, uses, side effects, dosages

Overview

Active ingredient: ivermectin.

Therapeutic class: antiparasitic. It is not an antibiotic. It is prescribed for certain parasitic infections such as strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, and it is used off-label in the U.S. for conditions like scabies or head lice when appropriate and as guided by a clinician.

If you are looking for how to take it correctly, jump to How to take. For prices and alternatives, see Alternatives and prices. For U.S. legal information, see Legal status.

Forms and dosages

Available strengths of Stromectol (ivermectin) tablets: 3 mg, 6 mg, 12 mg.

Your dose depends on body weight, the parasite being treated, and clinical judgment. Follow the exact prescription on your label. Do not change your dose unless your prescriber tells you to.

What should I tell my health care provider before taking this medicine?

Inform your clinician about the following before the first dose:

• Breast-feeding now or planning to breast-feed
• Liver disease or a history of abnormal liver tests
• Asthma or other significant lung problems
• Any unusual or allergic reaction to ivermectin or to other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Pediatric use: dosing in children should be guided by a pediatric clinician; safety data are limited in children under 15 kg (33 lb).

How should I use this medicine?

- Take by mouth with a full glass of water. Swallow tablets whole; do not crush unless your prescriber instructs you.
- Take on an empty stomach: at least 30 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after food.
- Use at the same time of day as directed. Do not take extra doses or take more often than prescribed.
- Complete the full course even if you feel better. Some infections need a repeat dose after a set interval; follow your clinician's plan.

For children, older adults, or those with multiple conditions, an individualized plan is needed. If you suspect an overdose, call Poison Help in the U.S. at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency care immediately.

See also Missed dose and Monitoring and hygiene.

What if I miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

What may interact with this medicine?

Tell your health care provider and pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins, and herbs you use. Possible interactions include:

• Warfarin or other anticoagulants, which may affect bleeding risk and INR
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (for example, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, ritonavir), which can raise ivermectin levels
• P-glycoprotein inhibitors (for example, cyclosporine, verapamil), which may increase central nervous system exposure
• Alcohol or sedatives, which can worsen dizziness or drowsiness

This list is not complete. Always provide a full, updated medication list to your clinician and pharmacist.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

You may need tests to verify that the infection has cleared. Some conditions require retreatment after a specific interval; do not take any extra doses unless instructed.

Hygiene helps reduce reinfection and spread: wash hands frequently, keep nails short and clean, shower regularly, and change and launder undergarments, towels, and bed linens daily during treatment. Clean frequently touched surfaces and bathroom fixtures. For scabies or lice, household members may need evaluation too.

If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, contact your clinician. For storage guidance, see Storage.

What side effects may I notice?

Serious effects - call your doctor right away

• Allergic reactions: rash, hives, itching, swelling of face, lips, or tongue
• Breathing problems or chest pain
• Eye pain, swelling, redness, or changes in vision
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Confusion, severe dizziness, fainting, or seizures
• Fever, unusual swelling, or severe fatigue
• Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• Loss of control of urine or bowel movements

Common, usually mild effects

• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Headache
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Joint or muscle aches
• Tender lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Tremor

Mild effects often improve as your body adjusts. If they persist or bother you, contact your health care professional.

Where should I keep my medicine?

- Keep out of reach of children.
- Store tightly closed at room temperature, below 30 C (86 F).
- Discard any remaining tablets after the labeled expiration date. Ask your pharmacist about take-back options.

Alternatives and similar medications, with rough price comparisons (USD)

Prices vary by pharmacy, region, insurance, and supply. The figures below are typical U.S. cash prices without insurance and may change. They are for informational purposes only.

• Ivermectin (generic Stromectol) oral tablets: roughly USD $3-$8 per 3 mg tablet. Depending on the infection and weight, a single treatment may range from about $12-$64 or more. Brand Stromectol, when stocked, can be higher.
• Permethrin 5% cream (topical, for scabies): about $20-$80 per tube. Often used first-line for scabies; sometimes combined with oral ivermectin in difficult cases per clinician guidance.
• Albendazole (oral, broad antiparasitic): can be expensive in the U.S., often $100-$300+ per treatment course. Used for other helminth infections; not a direct substitute unless indicated.
• Mebendazole (oral): pricing varies widely; may range $40-$200+ per course depending on brand/availability. Indications differ from ivermectin.
• Spinosad 0.9% topical (for lice; sometimes used off-label for scabies per specialist): often $150-$300 per bottle.
• Moxidectin (oral; FDA-approved for onchocerciasis): primarily via specialty suppliers; cash pricing may be higher than ivermectin and can vary substantially by source.

Important: The best alternative depends on the specific parasite and your health status. Always confirm with your clinician. Do not use veterinary ivermectin products for human treatment.

For dosing details, return to How to take. For prescription rules, see Legal status.

U.S. legal and regulatory notes for Stromectol (ivermectin)

• Prescription-only: In the United States, oral ivermectin for humans is available by prescription only. A licensed clinician must evaluate and prescribe it.
• Approvals: FDA-approved for specific parasitic infections (for example, strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis). Use for other conditions (such as scabies) may be off-label and should follow clinical guidelines.
• Telehealth and e-prescribing: Many states allow telemedicine prescribing when clinically appropriate. Pharmacy verification of legitimate prescriptions is required.
• Importation: Personal importation of prescription drugs is generally restricted. The FDA has a narrow discretionary policy, but you should not import ivermectin without complying with U.S. laws. Veterinary ivermectin is not approved for human use.
• Insurance and prior authorization: Coverage varies. Some plans may require prior authorization or step therapy for non-labeled uses.
• Safety labeling: Read the Medication Guide or patient information that accompanies the prescription.

Questions about your rights and responsibilities? Speak with your pharmacist or clinician, or consult FDA resources. For safe storage recommendations, see Storage.