Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Sklice
- Soolantra
Available Dosage Forms:
- Cream
- Lotion
Therapeutic Class: Anthelmintic
Chemical Class: Avermectin
Uses for ivermectin
Ivermectin 0.5% topical lotion is used to treat head lice infestations.
Ivermectin 1% topical cream is used to treat lesions of rosacea. Rosacea is a skin disease that causes redness and pimples on your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead.
Ivermectin is available over-the-counter.
Ivermectin is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using ivermectin
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For ivermectin, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to ivermectin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ivermectin topical lotion in children 6 months of age and older. However, use is not recommended in infants younger than 6 months of age.
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of ivermectin topical cream in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ivermectin topical lotion or cream in the elderly.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
