Why is ivermectin so expensive?

Short answer: it isn’t inherently expensive. Ivermectin is off-patent and available as generics, but its price can vary a lot by country and situation. Here are the main factors that can push the price up in some places:

- Supply and demand swings: Sudden spikes in demand (for humans or animals) or shortages can raise prices, especially if there aren’t many manufacturers competing in a market.
- Competition and market size: In markets with many generic makers, prices tend to be lower. In markets with few suppliers, prices can be higher.
- Regulatory and quality costs: Meeting quality and safety standards (GMP, testing, certifications) adds costs, which can be reflected in the price, especially in markets with strict regulation or import hurdles.
- Distribution and logistics: Shipping, storage, and distribution costs, as well as taxes and tariffs, can affect the final price.
- Donor programs and subsidies: In some regions, programs (like Merck’s Mectizan donation for certain diseases) help reduce cost for specific indications, but not all uses or all countries.
- Formulation and labeling: Human tablets/solutions versus veterinary products have different dosing and packaging, and this can affect price and availability. Veterinary products are often cheaper per mg but not suitable for human use.
- Market mischief or shortages: Counterfeit or substandard products, and parallel imports, can create confusing pricing and occasional shortages.

If you’d like, tell me your country and whether you’re asking about human or veterinary ivermectin. I can give more specific info on typical prices in your area and legitimate ways to save or obtain it. Also a quick safety note: do not use veterinary ivermectin for people, and don’t rely on it for unproven uses. If you’re considering treatment, talk to a healthcare provider about approved, safe options.