Typical oral scabies reference uses 200 mcg/kg (0.2 mg/kg) per dose, often repeated in 7–14 days depending on clinical plan.
How this ivermectin dosage calculator works
This tool estimates an oral ivermectin dose using a common scabies reference formula. The calculation converts your weight to kilograms (if needed), then applies the dose factor.
Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × 0.2 mg/kg
It also gives a practical tablet estimate based on common tablet strengths (3 mg, 6 mg, or 12 mg). In real practice, clinicians may round differently depending on your age, medical history, liver function, drug interactions, and local guidelines.
Typical oral scabies regimen (general reference)
For uncomplicated scabies, many references use ivermectin at 200 mcg/kg as a single dose, then repeat a second dose after 7 to 14 days. This second dose helps target mites that hatch after the first treatment.
- Dose 1: Day 1
- Dose 2: Day 8 to Day 15 (often Day 8 or Day 15 depending on protocol)
- Adjunct steps: treat close contacts and clean clothing/bedding per local guidance
Important caveats
- Young children and low body weight patients need individualized assessment.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions require clinician review.
- Crusted scabies often needs a more intensive multi-dose schedule plus topical therapy.
Oral ivermectin vs topical treatments
Oral ivermectin is often used when topical treatment is difficult, when outbreaks occur in group settings, or when previous therapy failed. However, many clinicians still use topical permethrin as a first-line option in routine scabies cases, depending on regional recommendations.
In some situations, combining oral and topical treatment improves outcomes, especially for crusted scabies or heavy infestations.
Safety checklist before taking ivermectin
- Confirm diagnosis (eczema, dermatitis, and other rashes can mimic scabies).
- Review all current medications for interaction risk.
- Verify age and weight-based suitability.
- Discuss pregnancy/breastfeeding and chronic medical conditions.
- Follow the exact schedule your clinician prescribes.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I still itch after treatment?
Post-scabies itch can persist for weeks even after mites are eradicated. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be rechecked to rule out treatment failure, reinfestation, or another skin diagnosis.
Do household members need treatment too?
Usually close contacts are treated at the same time to prevent ping-pong reinfestation. Your local public health or dermatology guidance may differ, so follow clinician advice.
Can I self-treat based only on an online calculator?
No. A calculator can estimate numbers, but it cannot evaluate contraindications, diagnosis certainty, or regimen complexity. Use this page for education and preparation, then confirm with a healthcare professional.
Bottom line
This ivermectin dosage for scabies calculator gives a fast weight-based estimate and a rough tablet conversion. It is useful for understanding how dosing is commonly derived, but safe treatment still requires diagnosis, medical review, and follow-up.