Ivermectin in Spain: Uses, Scabies and Prescriptions

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medicine. In Spain, ivermectin tablets are authorised for scabies, strongyloidiasis (an intestinal worm infection) and lymphatic filariasis, and an ivermectin cream is used for rosacea. It needs a medical assessment and a prescription. This guide is by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, a GP licensed in Spain (Colegiado No. 484814280) who sees patients by video in English and Spanish.

What is ivermectin used for?

According to its product information in CIMA, the Spanish medicines database, ivermectin tablets are used for:

• human scabies, diagnosed clinically or in the lab;
• intestinal strongyloidiasis, an infection by the worm Strongyloides stercoralis;
• microfilaraemia in lymphatic filariasis caused by Wuchereria bancrofti.

It works against parasites, not viruses or bacteria, and it does not prevent these infections.

Can I get ivermectin in Spain?

Yes, on prescription. Since 2025 generic ivermectin tablets authorised by the AEMPS, such as Ivermectina Stada or Ivertilene, are available in Spanish pharmacies. Before that, doctors had to order it as an imported medicine. In English-speaking countries you may know the tablets as Stromectol. The cream for rosacea is a different medicine with a different use.

Ivermectin for scabies

Scabies is caused by a tiny mite under the skin. It causes intense itching, worse at night. The doctor decides between ivermectin tablets, a cream such as permethrin, or both. To stop it coming back, everyone you live with is treated at the same time, and bedding and worn clothes are washed hot. See our page on scabies.

Does ivermectin work for COVID-19?

No. The European Medicines Agency advised against using it to prevent or treat COVID-19 outside clinical trials, because studies did not show a benefit. Taking it on your own carries side effects with no gain.

Can I take veterinary ivermectin?

No. Products for animals have other strengths and ingredients. They can cause serious poisoning in people, with dizziness, confusion, seizures or coma.

Who should check with a doctor first

• People who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding.
• Young children: the doctor decides whether it is suitable.
• People with a weak immune system, or who have lived in or travelled to central Africa (because of other parasites).
• Anyone taking other medicines, such as blood thinners.

Possible side effects

The leaflet lists dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness and itching or a rash; with scabies, itching can get worse at first. If something worries you, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

When to call 112

• Swelling of the face, lips or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Confusion, seizures or extreme drowsiness.
• Someone has taken veterinary ivermectin or too much of it.

Frequently asked questions about ivermectin in Spain

Sources

• AEMPS – CIMA: Ivermectina Stada tablets, product information (ficha técnica)
• AEMPS – CIMA: Ivertilene 3 mg tablets, patient leaflet
• MedlinePlus: Scabies

Getting a medical assessment

If you think you have scabies, or you were prescribed ivermectin and have questions, you can book a video consultation with Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, a physician registered in Spain. You can also read more about skin rashes. A prescription is never guaranteed: it is issued only where clinically appropriate after a genuine evaluation, as a private electronic prescription under Spanish law. This service is for urgent, non-emergency care. In an emergency, call 112.

This guide is general information. It does not replace the package leaflet or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.