Side Effects of Ivermectin: What Are They and What Should Be Done?

Ivermectin is an FDA-approved antiparasitic drug that is prescribed by doctors and virtual doctors alike, to treat a variety of parasitic infections or tropical diseases like scabies, river blindness (onchocerciasis), lice, etc.

In recent years, there has been a lot of interest to treat COVID-19 with Ivermectin, but there is not enough evidence to support that it is effective against the virus. While the drug is generally considered to be a safe drug, like any medication, there are some side effects of Ivermectin.

Let’s discuss what these side effects are and what you should do if you experience them.

What Are the Side Effects of Ivermectin?

The most common side effects of Ivermectin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, along with lethargy, dizziness, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. Typically, these side effects resolve on their own within a few days.

However, in some cases, these side effects or symptoms can persist for more than a few days and/ or become severe.

In some rare cases, side effects of ivermectin can be more serious, such as an allergic reaction or neurological problem. Signs of an allergic reaction to ivermectin may include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Whereas signs of neurological side effects include seizures, confusion, or hallucinations. These side effects are quite rare but can be serious.

Most importantly, ivermectin can interact with other drugs, such as blood thinners or alcohol, to exacerbate the mentioned side effects. Unless your healthcare provider or a virtual doctor prescribes Ivermectin to you, it may not be safe for you to take.

If you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other drugs, be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of ivermectin with your healthcare provider or a trusted virtual doctor.

What To Do About the Side Effects of Ivermectin

If you experience severe side effects from ivermectin, or they last longer than a few days, it is important to let your healthcare provider know about it. They may recommend a different medication or adjust your dosage to reduce the risk of side effects.

In some cases, they may need to monitor you more closely to ensure that the medication is working as intended and not causing any harm. If you experience neurological side effects of Ivermectin, or an allergic reaction to the drug, you must seek medical attention immediately.

For example, if your lips and tongue start to swell, or you experience difficulty breathing, contact emergency services or get to an ER immediately.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Generally, ivermectin is a safe, FDA-approved drug that is effective for treating parasitic infections. However, the side effects of Ivermectin can have serious consequences in rare cases.

The people who are most vulnerable are those who take Ivermectin alongside other strong drugs or without a doctor’s recommendation, especially if they have any underlying medical conditions.

If you do experience prolonged or severe side effects, an allergic reaction, or neurological side effects of Ivermectin, you must seek medical attention immediately.

That being said, if you do not have health insurance or aren’t on a healthcare plan, you can still get an affordable and convenient prescription for Ivermectin from a virtual doctor consultation.

If you want to book a virtual doctor consultation, we highly recommend checking out TelMDCare. We are the go-to place for individuals looking for affordable online doctor visits, especially those without health insurance.

You can easily book your virtual doctor appointment by calling 800-230-2050 today!