Description
Same active ingredient (ivermectin) as Stromectol®, the US brand. Iverheal 3 mg is an Indian brand, made and licensed in India.
About Iverheal 3 mg Tablets
Iverheal 3 mg is a prescription tablet containing 3 mg of ivermectin, made by Healing Pharma in India, used to treat certain parasitic infections, chiefly intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis (river blindness) and, in some countries, scabies. It is the lowest strength in the Iverheal range and matches the 3 mg strength of Stromectol, the reference ivermectin tablet sold in the United States. Iverheal itself is an Indian brand that has not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
How does ivermectin work?
Ivermectin binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels found in the nerve and muscle cells of worms and mites. Chloride floods into those cells, the parasite becomes paralyzed, and it dies or is cleared from the body. Humans do not depend on these channels outside the brain, and a transport protein at the blood–brain barrier normally keeps the drug out of the central nervous system, which is why labeled doses are generally well tolerated.
Why choose the 3 mg strength?
Ivermectin is dosed by body weight, so a small tablet lets the prescriber build an accurate dose for children weighing at least 33 lb (15 kg), smaller adults, and anyone whose dose falls between the larger strengths. The US labeling for strongyloidiasis (about 200 micrograms per kilogram, taken once) is written in 3 mg tablets, as shown below for illustration only:
| Body weight | Single dose | Number of 3 mg tablets |
|---|---|---|
| 33–53 lb (15–24 kg) | 3 mg | 1 |
| 55–77 lb (25–35 kg) | 6 mg | 2 |
| 79–110 lb (36–50 kg) | 9 mg | 3 |
| 112–143 lb (51–65 kg) | 12 mg | 4 |
| 145–174 lb (66–79 kg) | 15 mg | 5 |
| 176 lb (80 kg) or more | About 200 mcg/kg | As prescribed |
How to take Iverheal 3 mg
- Swallow the whole dose at once with a glass of water on an empty stomach, typically on waking and before breakfast.
- Strongyloidiasis usually needs a single dose; your doctor may arrange stool tests afterward to confirm the worms have gone.
- River blindness uses a lower dose of about 150 micrograms per kilogram, repeated every few months to a year because adult worms survive.
- Where it is prescribed for scabies, the usual plan is 200 micrograms per kilogram with a second dose one to two weeks later.
- Never take extra tablets: more ivermectin does not act faster and only raises the chance of side effects.
What are the side effects?
Most people notice nothing or only mild effects such as dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, tiredness or itching. When many parasites die at once, the body can respond with itching, rash, swollen glands, aching joints and fever; in river blindness this is called the Mazzotti reaction. Get urgent medical help for confusion, extreme sleepiness, unsteadiness, seizures, fainting, a blistering or peeling rash, or swelling of the face or throat.
Who should not take it?
- Children under 33 lb (15 kg) and anyone allergic to ivermectin.
- Pregnant women, unless a doctor judges it essential; small amounts reach breast milk, so discuss nursing as well.
- Anyone who has lived in Central or West Africa should be checked for Loa loa first, because a heavy Loa loa infection can lead to serious brain inflammation after ivermectin.
- Tell your doctor if you take warfarin (changes in INR have been reported) or sedatives, or if you have liver disease or a weakened immune system.
Pack sizes and storage
Strips of 10 tablets, in packs of 100, 200, 300 or 500, from $72. One adult treatment uses only a handful of tablets, so the larger packs mainly suit clinics or families treated together. Store below 86°F (30°C) in the original strip, away from light, moisture and children.
Frequently asked questions
Does ivermectin treat COVID-19?
No. Large clinical trials found no benefit, and it is not recommended for COVID-19 by US or international health authorities. Do not use Iverheal for any viral illness.
Is there a stronger Iverheal tablet?
Yes. Iverheal 6 mg and Iverheal 12 mg mean fewer tablets for heavier adults.
Where can I compare ivermectin brands?
Every strength is listed in our ivermectin category, with related products under filariasis.
For general education only. Iverheal 3 mg is a prescription medicine; take ivermectin only after a doctor has confirmed the infection and worked out your dose.