Ivermectin - Topical

Ivermectin is used to treat a certain skin problem associated with rosacea (skin flushing or blushing usually around your nose and cheeks).

This medicine may also be used to treat head lice and their eggs.

Apply Ivermectin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use it more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

Your doctor will also discuss the use of this medicine as different brands or preparations of Ivermectin may only be used for a specific condition.

Do not use this medicine for any conditions other than what is prescribed by your doctor.

Ivermectin is available as a skin cream or a hair and scalp lotion.

If you are using the skin cream to treat a skin problem associated with rosacea, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry your entire face before application.
3. Squeeze a pea-sized amount and gently apply a thin layer of the cream on the affected area(s) of the face such as the forehead, cheeks, nose, or chin.
4. Wash your hands after using.
5. Replace the cap of the tube.

If you are using the hair and scalp lotion to treat head lice infestation, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Apply a sufficient amount of lotion onto dry scalp and hair. Rub gently and thoroughly to completely cover the scalp and towards the ends of the hair, then leave it on for 10 minutes.
3. Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water and let your hair dry. You may use a fine-toothed comb in removing treated lice and nits.
4. Wash your hands after using.
5. Wait for at least 24 hours before applying shampoo to your hair and scalp.
6. Ivermectin lotion is for one-time use only. Discard any unused portion of the tube according to your doctor or pharmacist's instructions.

Avoid contact with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

If you are using the skin cream and missed a dose, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use Ivermectin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.

Inform your doctor if you have severe liver disease.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Ivermectin to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Do not apply the cream on irritated skin and open wounds or sores on the face.

How can I prevent lice infestation at home?

1. Avoid direct hair-to-hair contact with an infested person.
2. Avoid contact with the infested person’s belongings e.g. combs, hair accessories, hats, towels, clothing, bedding.
3. Clean and vacuum the room of an infested person, and machine-wash (using hot water) and dry-clean all his/her clothing and bedding.
4. If you are in close contact with the infested person, seek treatment immediately.

Ivermectin may cause any of the following side effects: stinging or burning sensation on the skin or scalp, irritation, itching, or dryness on the application site.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using creams, ointments, or other skin products on the affected area.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Do not freeze.

If you are using the cream, throw away any remaining cream 6 months after opening. Mark the date of opening on the tube so that you know when to discard it.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.