Is ivermectin a generic drug?

Yes – ivermectin is a generic drug.

- History: The first marketed formulation was Mectizan®, introduced by Merck in the 1980s for treating parasitic infections. Since then the active ingredient has entered the generic market under many brand names (e.g., Stromectol®, Ivermax®, others).

- Availability: In most countries you can buy generic ivermectin orally (tablet, capsule, or liquid) and, in many places, the topical 1 % solution for on‑and‑off‑the‑skin use. The price is usually far lower than the original branded product.

- Regulation: Generic ivermectin must meet the same quality, safety, and efficacy standards as the branded version, and it is approved by national regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, EMA, etc.) once the patent has expired or the generic manufacturer has obtained approval.

So if you’re looking for ivermectin, you can typically choose a generic form—it’s widely available and well‑established in the medical literature.