Iverheal - Ivermectin Tablets 3mg

Q1: What infections does Iverheal 3mg (Ivermectin) treat?

Iverheal 3mg treats onchocerciasis (river blindness caused by Onchocerca volvulus), strongyloidiasis (intestinal infection by Strongyloides stercoralis), scabies (caused by Sarcoptes scabiei), head and body lice infestations, and lymphatic filariasis. The 3mg tablet is ideal for precise weight-based dosing.

Q2: How does Ivermectin work to kill parasites?

Ivermectin binds to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels unique to invertebrate nervous systems. This causes increased membrane permeability to chloride ions, resulting in hyperpolarisation, paralysis, and death of the parasite. Because mammals lack these specific channels, ivermectin is selectively toxic to parasites at therapeutic doses.

Q3: How long does it take for Iverheal 3mg to work?

In onchocerciasis, a single dose kills microfilariae within days, though adult worms are not eliminated and repeat annual dosing is required. For scabies, most mites are killed within 24–48 hours; complete skin healing takes 2–4 weeks. A second dose at 7–14 days is often needed.

Q4: What is the correct dose and frequency for Iverheal 3mg?

Dosing is weight-based at 150–200 mcg/kg as a single oral dose. Using 3mg tablets, a 60kg adult would take approximately 3 tablets (9mg), with the exact number calculated by the prescribing physician. For scabies, a second dose after 7–14 days is standard practice.

Q5: Should I take Iverheal 3mg with food or on an empty stomach?

Iverheal 3mg is best taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Food — particularly high-fat meals — can increase absorption significantly, which may not be desirable unless specifically directed. Always follow the prescribing instructions provided by your doctor.

Q6: Can I stop taking Iverheal after my symptoms improve?

For strongyloidiasis, complete the prescribed course. For scabies, do not skip the second dose even if the itch improves — hatching mites from surviving eggs will re-establish the infestation without the second treatment. For onchocerciasis, annual treatment is required for ongoing disease control.

Q7: What are the most common side effects of Iverheal 3mg?

Common side effects include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhoea. In patients with high parasite loads, a Mazzotti-type reaction can occur — fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain — as parasites die. This is not a drug allergy and usually resolves within 1–3 days.

Q8: Is Iverheal 3mg safe for children?

Ivermectin is generally not recommended for children under 15kg body weight or under 5 years of age due to limited safety data. The 3mg tablet strength enables accurate weight-based dosing in older children. Paediatric use must be supervised by a physician.

Q9: Can pregnant women take Iverheal 3mg?

Ivermectin is generally avoided in pregnancy, especially the first trimester. In endemic areas where onchocerciasis or strongyloidiasis poses serious maternal risk, a physician may recommend use after the first trimester. Consult your doctor before taking any antiparasitic during pregnancy.

Q10: What should I do if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a scheduled dose of Iverheal, particularly for conditions like scabies where the interval between the first and second dose is critical for efficacy. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

Q11: How should Iverheal 3mg tablets be stored?

Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. Store in the original blister packaging. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Q12: Do I need a prescription for Iverheal 3mg?

Yes. Ivermectin requires a prescription in most countries. A healthcare provider should confirm the type of parasitic infection through clinical examination or laboratory testing. Correct diagnosis determines the appropriate dose, course length, and whether repeat treatment is needed.