Ivermectin for Scabies

Doctors may prescribe ivermectin to treat a scabies infestation in certain situations.^{Reference 1}

• People who have a severe or resistant form of scabies infestation, such as Reference crusted (Norwegian) scabies, may be prescribed ivermectin in combination with medicine applied to the skin, such as permethrin. It can be especially helpful for treating Reference HIV-infected Opens New Window people who have scabies.
• A pill form of medicine may be preferred for some people who are unlikely to use topical medicated creams or lotions properly.
• Ivermectin may help get rid of or prevent scabies for people in group living situations, such as those who live in nursing homes.

Ivermectin is usually not used for children younger than 5 or for pregnant women, because its safety in these children is not known.^{Reference 2}

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.