Ivermectin active ingredient and excipients?

Ivermectin is the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in all ivermectin‑based products. What you see in the tablet, capsule, suspension or vial is that single compound mixed with a number of inactive ingredients (excipients) that help the medicine stay stable, dissolve, flow, taste, and get delivered to the body.

Active Ingredient
• Ivermectin (C₁₇₀H₂₆₁NO₁₃) – the antiparasitic compound that binds to glutamate‑gated chloride channels in nematodes and arthropods.

Excipients
Excipients vary by formulation and manufacturer, but the most common ones include:

| Formulation | Typical Excipients (examples) | Purpose |
|-------------|------------------------------|---------|
| Oral Tablets (e.g., 3 mg, 12.5 mg, 3 mg / ml) | • Lactose monohydrate
• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Croscarmellose sodium (disintegrant)
• Magnesium stearate (lubricant)
• Colloidal silicon dioxide (anti‑caking)
• Talc (glitter, optional)
• Colorants or coatings (if coated) | Provide bulk, aid tablet compression, ensure rapid disintegration, prevent sticking, and improve appearance. |
| Oral Suspensions (e.g., 3 mg / mL) | • Sorbitol (sweetener/osmotic agent)
• Polysorbate 80 (emulsifier)
• Propylene glycol (solvent)
• Sodium chloride (taste balancer)
• Sodium benzoate (preservative)
• Flavor (e.g., fruit‑flavored) | Keep the drug uniformly dispersed, improve palatability, and preserve the preparation. |
| Injectable Solution (e.g., 1 mg / mL) | • Propylene glycol (solvent)
• Polysorbate 80 (solubilizer)
• Ethanol (co‑solvent, if present)
• 1 M Sodium hydroxide (pH adjuster)
• Sterile water for injection | Ensure the drug is fully dissolved, maintain sterile pH, and provide a clear, stable injectable. |

Key Take‑aways
* The active ingredient is always ivermectin.
* Excipients are there to give the product its required physical and chemical properties.
* Exact excipient lists can differ between brands and countries, so it’s best to check the specific package insert or the label of the product you’re using.
* If you have allergies (e.g., to lactose, sorbitol, propylene glycol, or any of the above excipients), let your pharmacist or prescriber know so they can choose an alternative formulation.