Description
Ivermectin tablets are an oral antiparasitic medicine used to treat scabies — an intensely itchy skin condition caused by tiny mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) that burrow into the skin. At Bury Healthcare Online, our UK-registered prescribers can review your case and, where clinically appropriate, prescribe ivermectin 3mg tablets with discreet UK delivery.
How to get ivermectin tablets online
- Free online consultation — answer a few short medical questions about your symptoms and health.
- Prescriber review — a UK-registered prescriber checks that ivermectin is safe and suitable for you.
- Discreet UK delivery — if approved, your treatment is dispensed and delivered in plain, unbranded packaging.
About ivermectin tablets
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medicine. Ivermectin 3mg tablets are taken by mouth to treat scabies and are usually used when a topical treatment such as permethrin cream has not worked, cannot be used, or where a prescriber recommends an oral option (for example crusted scabies or wider outbreaks).
Important: the first-line treatment for ordinary scabies in the UK is a topical cream (permethrin 5%, or malathion if unsuitable). Oral ivermectin is generally second-line. Our prescriber will only approve it where clinically appropriate, and may recommend a cream or ask you to see your GP.
What are ivermectin tablets used for?
Ivermectin tablets are most commonly prescribed for scabies, including crusted (Norwegian) scabies, treatment failure with topical creams, and wider household or institutional outbreaks. Ivermectin is also used for certain other parasitic infections, such as strongyloidiasis, when prescribed.
Who can take ivermectin tablets?
Ivermectin tablets may be suitable for adults and children weighing at least 15kg. Do not take them if you are allergic to ivermectin or have had a severe skin reaction to it before. Tell our prescriber if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a weakened immune system, have lived in or travelled to parts of Central or West Africa (Loa loa risk), have liver or neurological problems, or take other medicines.
How to take ivermectin tablets
Take with water on an empty stomach; do not eat for 2 hours before or after. The dose is based on body weight (about 200 micrograms per kg) — your prescriber confirms the number of tablets. Ordinary scabies is usually treated with a single dose; a second dose is given only if your prescriber advises it (often after 7–14 days).
Ivermectin dosage table (by body weight)
| Body weight | Dose (3mg tablets) |
|---|---|
| 15 to 24 kg | 1 tablet |
| 25 to 35 kg | 2 tablets |
| 36 to 50 kg | 3 tablets |
| 51 to 65 kg | 4 tablets |
| 66 to 79 kg | 5 tablets |
| 80 kg and over | 6 tablets |
Ivermectin side effects
Most side effects are mild. Itching can briefly worsen at the start of treatment, and you may notice a mild skin rash, headache, dizziness, nausea or muscle aches. With scabies, itching can continue for 2–4 weeks after the mites are killed while the skin heals — this does not mean treatment has failed. Seek urgent medical advice if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash).
How to store ivermectin tablets
Store below 30°C in the original packaging, away from direct heat and moisture, and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date and return any unused tablets to a pharmacy.
Frequently asked questions
How do you treat scabies?
How is scabies spread?
How long does ivermectin take to work?
How can I tell if scabies treatment is working?
Can you buy ivermectin in the UK without a prescription?
Can you get scabies on your face?
Important safety information
Ivermectin tablets are not suitable for everyone and are supplied only after a prescriber review. This information is a summary and does not replace the patient information leaflet. If your symptoms are severe, spreading rapidly, or you feel generally unwell, contact your GP or NHS 111.