Ivermectin: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Ivermectin is a macrocyclic lactone antiparasitic medicine used to treat head lice, which are parasites that live on the hair and scalp. The head lice product described here is a topical treatment, and its warnings relate specifically to scalp use. Ivermectin requires a prescription in the United Kingdom, and generic versions are available.

Ivermectin belongs to a group of antiparasitic medicines called macrocyclic lactones. These medicines act on channels in the nerve and muscle cells of susceptible parasites. By changing the movement of chloride through these channels, ivermectin disrupts normal nerve signals and muscle activity.

This leads to paralysis and death of the parasites. For head lice, the topical formulation brings the medicine into contact with lice on the hair and scalp. This mechanism explains its antiparasitic action; it does not mean that different ivermectin formulations are interchangeable.

The topical ivermectin product described here treats head lice. The label describes checking the hair and scalp for live lice and nits, which are lice eggs attached to hair. Nits may be found near the scalp, particularly behind the ears and at the back of the neck.

Unlike dandruff, they stick to the hair rather than moving when lightly touched. The product is intended for the scalp, not for lice in the eyebrows or eyelashes.

Lice in those areas need assessment by a doctor. If the infestation continues after treatment, the label advises seeing a doctor about other treatments.

The label lists topical cream at 10 mg/g, emulsion at 0.5 g/100 mL, lotion at 0.005 g/mL, 0.5 g/100 g and 5 mg/g, lotion/shampoo at 0.005 g/mL, and oral tablets at 3 mg and 6 mg. The label lists the head lice treatment for adults and children 6 months of age and over, with adult supervision for children under 12 years of age. The label lists an amount sufficient to cover dry hair and scalp completely, up to 1 entire tube, for a single treatment.

The label lists a contact time of 10 minutes after complete coverage, followed by rinsing with water only. The label lists a wait of 24 hours before shampooing. The head lice directions concern the topical product, not the oral tablets.

The product is described as single use, with any remainder discarded. Repeat treatment for the same person and infestation requires discussion with a healthcare professional.

Store at room temperature, 68º-77ºF (20º-25ºC), and do not freeze. Keep the carton so the leaflet and warnings remain available.

Do not use the product if the tamper seal on the tube has been broken. Keep out of reach of children.

This head lice product is described as a single-use treatment rather than a regular course with scheduled doses. If treatment has been delayed or interrupted, ask a pharmacist for advice rather than adding extra product. Repeat use for the same person and infestation should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

The label advises asking a doctor before use during pregnancy or when planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether the product can harm an unborn baby.

Anyone breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed should also seek advice before use. Avoid getting the product on the breast to help prevent contact with the baby.