TGA removes prescribing restrictions on ivermectin

Effective June 1, 2023, prescribing of oral ivermectin for ‘off-label’ uses will no longer be limited to specialists such as dermatologists, gastroenterologists and infectious diseases specialists, in Australia.

Ivermectin is the active ingredient of US pharma giant Merck & Co’s (NYSE: MRK) Mectizan and Stromectil brands, but is also available as a generic.

In its final decision, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has removed the restriction through its scheduling in the Poisons Standard because there is sufficient evidence that the safety risks to individuals and public health is low when prescribed by a general practitioner in the current health climate.