Description
Ivecop 6 Mg Tablets
Ivecop 6 Mg Tablets contain ivermectin 6 mg, an antiparasitic medicine from the macrolide-derived avermectin class. Ivermectin is used to treat several human parasitic infections, including strongyloidiasis (intestinal roundworm infection), onchocerciasis (river blindness), and, in some regions, scabies and head lice when given orally. It works by paralysing and killing the parasite, and it is typically given as a single dose or a short course, with the dose calculated from body weight. It is for human use only and must not be confused with veterinary ivermectin products.
Composition
| Active Ingredient | Strength |
|---|---|
| Ivermectin | 6 mg per tablet |
About the Manufacturer
Manufacturer details are printed on the pack and in the patient information leaflet supplied with each strip. Check the leaflet for the current prescribing information before use.
Mechanism of Action
Ivermectin binds selectively to glutamate-gated chloride channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells. This increases chloride ion permeability, hyperpolarises the cell, and causes paralysis and death of the parasite. Mammals have a limited number of these channels, and ivermectin does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier in healthy individuals because of P-glycoprotein efflux, which accounts for its favourable safety profile at therapeutic doses.
Indications
- Treatment of intestinal strongyloidiasis (Strongyloides stercoralis)
- Treatment of onchocerciasis (river blindness), as part of community or individual programmes
- Other parasitic indications as directed by a clinician, depending on local guidance
Dosage & Administration
- Take on an empty stomach, or with a light meal, with a glass of water. Food, particularly high-fat meals, can increase absorption
- Dose is calculated by body weight and set by the prescriber. Standard regimens are usually a single dose, sometimes repeated after a short interval
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose or repeat a course without medical advice
- Complete any prescribed course in full
- Household contacts may need treatment, depending on the infection, as directed by a clinician
Special Populations
- Children: Dosing is weight-based. Not recommended for children under 15 kg unless specialist advice is given
- Elderly: No specific dose change, but monitor for dizziness and confusion
- Renal and hepatic impairment: Use with caution; liver function may need monitoring during prolonged use
- Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed and after discussion with a doctor, as data are limited
- Breastfeeding: Ivermectin passes into breast milk in small amounts; discuss with a doctor first
Precautions
- Loa loa co-infection: In people with heavy Loa loa microfilaraemia, ivermectin can cause serious neurological adverse events, including encephalopathy. Clinicians must test for Loa loa in endemic areas before treatment
- Central nervous system disorders: Use with caution in patients with meningitis, encephalitis, or other conditions that affect the blood-brain barrier
- Mazzotti reaction: In onchocerciasis, the dying microfilariae can cause fever, itching, swelling, and lymph node tenderness. This is expected and usually short-lived, but it should be managed by a clinician
- Driving and machinery: Dizziness can occur; avoid driving until you know how the medicine affects you
- Alcohol: Avoid, as it may increase dizziness
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to ivermectin or any excipient
- Children under 15 kg body weight, unless specialist advice is given
Side Effects
- Common: Dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, headache, itching, rash
- Less common: Fever, joint or muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, oedema
- Rare: Hypotension, tachycardia, confusion, seizures (more likely in high-burden Loa loa co-infection), allergic reactions including angioedema
- Seek medical help for: Confusion, severe headache, seizures, difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or fainting
Drug Interactions
- Warfarin and other vitamin K antagonists: Ivermectin has been associated with raised INR. Monitor clothing or blood tests if co-prescribed
- Drugs that inhibit P-glycoprotein (for example, cyclosporine, verapamil, ketoconazole): Can increase ivermectin levels and the risk of neurotoxicity
- Drugs that act on the central nervous system (sedatives, benzodiazepines): Additive dizziness or drowsiness
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original packaging. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
Related Products
- Iverheal 12 Mg Tablet – ivermectin 12 mg for weight-based dosing
- Ivecop 12 Mg Tablets – ivermectin 12 mg higher-strength option
- Azithral 500 Mg Tablets – azithromycin antibiotic
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Ivecop 6 Mg used for?
- It is used to treat parasitic worm infections such as strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis, and it may be used for other conditions under medical guidance. It should only be taken as prescribed for a confirmed infection.
- Why is the dose based on body weight?
- Ivermectin is dosed per kilogram of body weight so that the drug level is effective against the parasite while remaining safe. Your prescriber calculates the correct number of tablets for you.
- Should I take it on an empty stomach?
- Yes, ideally on an empty stomach or with a light meal. High-fat meals can increase absorption, which may increase side effects.
- Can I use veterinary ivermectin instead?
- No. Veterinary formulations have different strengths and additives, and their dosing is not suitable for people. Use only the human product as prescribed.
References
- NHS – Worm Infections (including strongyloidiasis guidance)
- MedlinePlus – Drug Information Index (ivermectin)
- FDA – Drugs (ivermectin prescribing information)
- EMA – Medicines (ivermectin product information)
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Ivecop 6 Mg Tablets must be prescribed and dosed by a qualified healthcare professional based on body weight and local infection guidance. Do not use veterinary ivermectin products. Seek urgent medical help for confusion, seizures, fainting, or breathing difficulty.
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