What is Iverguard 12 mg?
Iverguard 12 mg is an oral antiparasitic medicine containing ivermectin. It belongs to the avermectin group and works against certain parasites in the body.
The 12mg strength is available as a convenient tablet strength, but the correct number of tablets depends on the condition being treated and the person’s body weight. Australian prescribing information for ivermectin 3mg tablets, for example, uses weight-based dosing rather than a fixed dose for every patient.
Uses of Iverguard 12 mg
This medicine may be prescribed for certain parasitic infections like:
- Intestinal strongyloidiasis
- Onchocerciasis
- Certain cases of scabies
- Other parasitic conditions if a healthcare professional specifically recommends the use of this medicine
Depending on the parasite causing the infection, the treatment will also vary. It is not safe to take ivermectin when you have symptoms such as itching and stomach discomfort without knowing the cause of these symptoms because these symptoms can be caused by many different things.
How Does Iverguard Work?
Ivermectin disrupts the activity of nerves and muscles in parasites susceptible to its effects. This mechanism prevents the parasites from functioning correctly, which may lead to the complete elimination of the parasites from the host’s body.
Ivermectin is selective for parasites and does not target bacteria or viruses. Therefore, determining whether the infection is indeed due to a parasite is a crucial step prior to initiating the treatment.
Benefits of Iverguard 12 mg
When appropriately prescribed, ivermectin treatment can help clear susceptible parasitic infections and reduce symptoms caused by them.
Depending on the condition, treatment may help to:
- Eliminate certain intestinal parasites
- Reduce the number of susceptible parasites in the body
- Treat specific cases of scabies
- Reduce problems caused by parasitic infection
- Support recovery as part of a complete treatment plan
The response is different for each person and depends on the type and severity of the infection.
Dosage and How to Use
Take Iverguard 12 mg exactly as directed by your healthcare professional.
Ivermectin dosing is generally based on body weight and the condition being treated. Australian product information for oral ivermectin gives weight-based dosing for conditions such as strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis.
Keep these points in mind:
- Do not decide your dose based only on the 12mg tablet strength.
- Take the medicine only according to your prescription.
- Swallow the tablet with water.
- Do not take extra tablets if symptoms continue.
- Do not repeat treatment unless your healthcare professional tells you to.
- Tell your doctor about other medicines and supplements you use.
- Complete any follow-up examination recommended for your infection.
For some conditions, treatment may involve a repeat dose or follow-up testing. The timing depends on the diagnosis.
Possible Side Effects
The majority of people who take ivermectin and use it correctly find it safe with very few side effects. However, there is always the risk of experiencing some unwanted effects.
We have some potential side effects listed which are:
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Headaches can also be a consequence
- Feelings of nausea
- Diarrhea which might last for a few days
- Complaints about abdominal problems
- Feeling very tired or fatigued
- Rashes or redness on the skin which might be itchy or not
In some individuals, on treatment for Onchocerciasis, there are reactions due to the death of the microfilariae, which may be accompanied by other symptoms like itching, fever, etc.
Contact a medical professional in case the symptoms are severe, very unusual or do not respond to treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you:
- Have liver disease
- Have another serious medical condition
- Have previously had an allergic reaction to ivermectin
- Take medicines that affect the nervous system
- Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
- Are breastfeeding
- Are being treated for another parasitic infection
Your doctor should know about your complete medication history before deciding whether this treatment is suitable.
Iverguard 12 mg and Scabies
Ivermectin can be used in certain cases of scabies, but oral treatment is not appropriate for every person with an itchy rash.
Oral ivermectin for scabies should be used when scabies has been clinically or parasitologically established. For crusted scabies, oral treatment may be used together with appropriate topical treatment.
If itching continues after treatment, this does not automatically mean another dose is needed. Your healthcare professional should assess the situation first.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or intending to get pregnant in the future, it is very important for you not to self-medicate.
Whether it is a mild case of infection or a deep-rooted severe one and also whether taking a medicine has more benefits over its risk is something to be discussed beforehand.
Storage
- Keep the tablets in their original packaging.
- Store below 30°C.
- Place it in a cool and dry location.
- Keep it shielded from moisture and high temperature.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Do not keep it in the bathroom.
- Store it in a place where children and pets won’t reach it.
- Do not use the tablets after the expiry date.
- Ask a pharmacist about safe disposal of unused medicine.
FAQs
Why is the dose of Iverguard 12mg different for different people?
The required amount of ivermectin is generally calculated according to the person’s body weight and the condition being treated. The tablet strength alone does not determine the correct treatment.
Can Iverguard 12 mg be used for every type of parasite?
No. Ivermectin is active against certain parasites, but it is not a universal treatment for all parasitic infections. The specific organism needs to be identified before choosing treatment.
Why might symptoms continue after treatment?
Symptoms do not always disappear immediately after the parasite has been treated. The skin or digestive system may need time to recover. Continuing or worsening symptoms should be assessed rather than automatically treated with another dose.
Is one treatment always enough?
Not necessarily. The required treatment schedule depends on the infection. Some conditions are managed with a single dose, while others may require additional treatment or follow-up. Your doctor should decide whether another dose is needed.
Can I take another antiparasitic medicine at the same time?
Do not combine antiparasitic medicines unless your healthcare professional has recommended the combination. Different medicines work in different ways and may not be appropriate together.
Should I take another tablet if itching does not stop?
No. Persistent itching does not automatically mean the infection is still present. Especially with scabies, itching can continue after successful treatment. Speak with your healthcare professional before taking another dose.
Can Iverguard 12mg be used to treat a viral infection?
No. Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medicine and is not a general treatment for viral infections. The Australian TGA specifically states that approved ivermectin products are intended for particular parasitic conditions and are not approved for preventing or treating COVID-19.
References
The following Australian medical and regulatory resources were used while preparing this information:
- Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care – STROMECTOL Consumer Medicine Information
STROMECTOL – Australian CMI - Healthdirect Australia – STROMECTOL 3mg
STROMECTOL – Healthdirect Australia
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Iverguard 12mg is presented as an ivermectin product and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
