Best Ivermectin Dosage for Humans with Cancer or Different Cancer Types (2025)

Introduction

This article discusses dosage considerations and key factors regarding the use of ivermectin in cancer treatment.

Commonly available information about ivermectin dosages is often inaccurate when applied to potential cancer-related uses. Many sources cite standard dosages recommended by Merck for treating parasitic infections, rather than dosages studied specifically in the context of cancer research.

The anti-parasitic dosage is not as effective for people looking for a dosage against cancer. Dosage will need to be adjusted according to the current weight, the type of Cancer, the stage and grade of the Cancer and the health of the liver.

Ivermectin dosage should also be based on ivermectin cancer studies. Multiple factors are considered including studies including ivermectin for cancer, anecdotal studies and case series, the aggressiveness of the cancer type and the cancer stage.

It also takes into account the types of medications the person uses. For example, if they are on blood thinners, the dose of Ivermectin is affected by this, as Ivermectin also thins the blood. 

Cancer dosage estimation can be adjusted based on the time that a person has to beat cancer or its risk to the patient - this includes both the cancer type and whether the cancer has spread or metastasised.

Some cancers provide the patient with less time to beat the cancer e.g. fast growing cancer, and of course; metastasis also means that the time to beat the cancer is shorter than before metastasis.

What Is Ivermectin?

Ivermectin is an anti-parasite drug used to treat various parasite infections in humans, but it can also be used to treat other health conditions like river blindness, onchocerciasis, intestinal strongyloidiasis, and onchocerciasis.

Ivermectin is often recognized – 2nd to penicillin – for having the greatest impact on human health. And its discovery won the Nobel Prize in 2015. Ivermectin has an increasing list of indications due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, and is included on the WHO’s Model List of Essential Medicines. 

Several studies reported antiviral effects of ivermectin on RNA viruses such as dengue, Zika, yellow fever, West Nile, Hendra, Newcastle, Venezuelan equine encephalitis, chikungunya, Semliki Forest, Sindbis, Avian influenza A, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, Human immunodeficiency virus type 1, and COVID 19 virus.

Ivermectin vs Conventional Cancer Treatments

Choosing conventional cancer treatments often requires a detailed analysis of their complexity, potential side effects, and cost-effectiveness—particularly when it comes to high-cost options like immunotherapy.

In contrast, the pharmaceutical industry has been criticized for promoting newer, patented drugs that may be less safe or less effective than older, off-patent alternatives.

On the other hand, using ivermectin may require less extensive analysis. It offers additional health benefits and is considered by some as a potentially valuable option for cancer patients.

Ivermectin has shown promise not only as a potential cancer treatment but also as a preventive measure. It is generally well-tolerated and can be taken over extended periods to help prevent cancer or reduce the risk of recurrence.

Compared to conventional cancer treatments—especially chemotherapy, which is known for its severe side effects—ivermectin has an extremely low side effect profile. Moreover, it is significantly more affordable than most standard cancer therapies.

Nonetheless, any treatment approach should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with individual needs and medical circumstances.

Another important consideration is the difference in urgency between doctors and patients. While it is reasonable to emphasize that more research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of treatments, patients facing serious illnesses often cannot afford to wait for definitive answers. Their immediate needs and desire for hope can drive them to explore emerging or off-label therapies despite limited data. This underscores the importance of compassionate communication, clear guidance on potential risks, and ongoing efforts to accelerate high-quality clinical research.

Related article: Integrative approaches for Cancer by A Midwestern Doctor and Dr Pierre Kory

Ivermectin vs Other Non-Conventional Cancer Treatments

Ivermectin is one of the top non-standard or non-conventional drug for cancer.

A close second would be fenbendazole - which also happens to be an anti-parasitic drug that works against cancer through some difference mechanisms than ivermectin - which we cover in the article here: 

Fenbendazole Joe Tippens Protocol.

Best Ivermectin Dosage for Humans with Cancer

Ivermectin for Cancer Dosage Guidelines Based on Body Weight (in Kilograms)

The table below provided shows dose recommendations based on body weight, with calculations for four different dose* levels commonly used in protocols:

• 0.5 mg/kg (low dose)

• 1 mg/kg (medium dose)

• 2 mg/kg (high dose)

• 2.5 mg/kg (very high dose)

Ivermectin: Calculation of correct dose

How to Read the Table

• First Column: Represents your body weight range in kilograms (kg).

• Columns 2 to 5: Show the corresponding dose ranges in milligrams (mg) based on your weight and the selected dose* level (mg per kg of body weight).

• For example, if you weigh between 60–68 kg and are following a 1 mg/kg dose protocol, your recommended dose* is 60–68 mg and your recommended dosage* is 60-68 mg per day.

*Dose vs Dosage?

Have you ever wondered about the nuanced difference between the usage of dose vs. dosage? People often use dose and dosage interchangeably, but these terms have different meanings. It’s a subtle distinction that can sometimes be overlooked, but it’s essential for accurate reporting and instruction.

Dose refers to the amount of a substance administered to an individual, usually in terms of weight or concentration. It is a single quantity of a substance that is given to achieve a desired effect. For example, in pharmacology, the dose of a medication may be expressed in milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight. Example: The recommended dose of the drug is 10 mg/kg.

Dosage refers to the regimen or schedule of administering a substance, usually over a period of time. It is the total amount of a substance given over a period, often expressed in terms of frequency and duration. For example, in clinical trials, a medication dosage may be administered once daily for a week. Example: The recommended dosage for the medication is one tablet every six hours for a week.

Dosage Calculation Formula

To calculate the dosage manually:
Dosage (mg) = Body Weight (kg) × Dose Level (mg/kg)
Taken once daily unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider.

Dose Level Examples

• 0.5 mg/kg: Multiply your weight by 0.5

• 1 mg/kg: Multiply your weight by 1

• 2 mg/kg: Multiply your weight by 2

• 2.5 mg/kg: Multiply your weight by 2.5

Important Notes

• Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dosage for your condition.

• These guidelines are general references and should not replace professional medical advice.

• The table provides ranges to account for individual variations within each weight bracket.

• Ivermectin is best taken with a meal or just following a meal, for greater absorption.

• Ivermectin promoted both total and mitochondrial ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) production in a dose-dependent manner, in cancer cells, which could be eliminated by anti-oxidants (2021 study by Zhou et al). Ivermectin and anti-oxidants should be taken at different times throughout the day.

Ivermectin Half-life

Ivermectin (IVM) has a half-life of 18 hours, meaning that 24 hours after a dose, approximately 38% of the drug remains in your body. When you take a new dose, it adds to the existing amount, resulting in a higher total IVM concentration than after the first dose. Therefore, if taken daily, there is a risk of drug accumulation in the body.

Types and Forms of Ivermectin

Ivermectin comes in many forms; tablets, paste and liquid. Caution: If using liquid, please ensure that it is the oral and not the “Drench” topical used for animals skin issues.

Is there any study for Ivermectin and Fenbendazole for Cancer?

Yes. There is now a peer-reviewed research study where patients with cancer successfully took all three drugs Fenbendazole, Mebendazole and Ivermectin. Experts believe this combination attacks the mitochondrial support for cancer stem cells.

According to oncologist Dr William Makis:

“This paper is the FIRST peer-reviewed and Published paper in the world to propose a Cancer Treatment Protocol based on the incredible properties of IVERMECTIN, MEBENDAZOLE and FENBENDAZOLE. This was truly a labor of love.

My thanks to lead authors Ilyes Baghli and Pierrick Martinez for their incredible inspired work, FLCCC’s Dr. Paul Marik for his extensive work on repurposed drugs and every co-author who worked hard to bring this paper to life.

I hope that this paper lays the groundwork for a brand new future for Cancer Treatment”.

The Hybrid Orthomolecular Cancer Protocol: 7 therapeutic recommendations, consisting of orthomolecules, drugs, and additional therapies

1. Intravenous Vitamin C 

Intermediate- and high-grade cancers: Dose of 1.5g/kg/day, 2-3x per week (Fan, et al., 2023). Established as a non-toxic dose for cancer patients (Wang, F., et al., 2019). 

2. Oral Vitamin D 

All cancer grades: Dose of 50,000 IU/day for patients with a blood level ≤ 30ng/mL; 25,000 IU/day for levels 30-60ng/mL; and 5000 IU/day for levels 60-80ng/mL. Established as a non-toxic dose (Cannon, et al., 2016; Ghanaati, et al., 2020; McCullough, et al., 2019). 

It is necessary to reach a blood level of 80 ng/mL of vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamine D (25(OH) D) (Kennel, et al., 2010; Mohr, et al., 2014; Mohr, et al., 2015). This level is non-toxic (Holick, et al., 2011). Once this level is reached it must be maintained with a reduced daily dosage of ≈ 2000 IU/day (Ekwaru, et al., 2014). The vitamin D blood concentration should be measured every two weeks for high doses and monthly for lower doses. 

3. Zinc 

All cancer grades: Dose of 1 mg/kg/day is established as a non-toxic dose for cancer patients (Hoppe, et al., 2021; Lin, et al., 2006). The reference range for serum zinc concentration is 80 to 120 μg/dL (Mashhadi, et al., 2016; Yokokawa, et al., 2020). Once this level is reached it must be maintained with a reduced daily dosage of 5mg/day (Li, et al., 2022). The zinc blood concentration should be measured monthly.

4. Ivermectin 

• Low-grade cancers: Dose of 0.5mg/kg, 3x per week (Guzzo, et al., 2002). 
• Intermediate-grade cancers: Dose of 1mg/kg, 3x per week (Guzzo, et al., 2002). 
• High-grade cancers: Dose from 1 mg/kg/day (de Castro, et al., 2020) to 2 mg/ kg/day (Guzzo, et al., 2002). 

All these doses have been established as tolerable for humans (Guzzo, et al., 2002). 

5. Benzimidazoles and DON*

• Low-grade cancers: Mebendazole: Dose of 200 mg/day (Dobrosotskaya, et al., 2011). 
• Intermediate-grade cancers: Mebendazole: Dose of 400 mg/day (Chai, et al., 2021). 
• High-grade cancers: Mebendazole dose of 1,500 mg/day (Son, et al., 2020) or Fenbendazole 1,000 mg 3x per week (Chiang, et al., 2021). 

All these doses have been established as tolerable for humans (Chai, et al., 2021; Chiang, et al., 2021; Son, et al., 2020). Benzimidazoles can be replaced or combined with DON*, administered without toxicity; intravenously or intramuscularly: 0.2 to 0.6 mg/kg once daily; or orally: 0.2 to 1.1 mg/kg once daily (Lemberg, et al., 2018; Rais, et al., 2022). Benzimidazole are much easier to obtain than DON. However, for metastatic cancers, which rely heavily on glutamine (Seyfried, et al., 2020), a combination of DON and Benzimidazoles should be considered (Mukherjee, et al., 2023). 

*Note: DON (6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine) is a glutamine-specific antagonist more potent than Benzimidazoles.

6. Dietary Interventions 

All cancer grades: Ketogenic diet (low carbohydrate-high fat diet, 900 to 1500 kcal/day) (Weber, et al., 2020). 

Ketone metabolic therapy consists of approximately 60- 80% fat, 15-25% protein and 5-10% fibrous carbohydrates. Adequate hydration and single-ingredient whole food ketogenic meals are necessary to achieve a glucose ketone index (GKI) score of 2.0 or below (Meidenbauer, et al., 2015; Seyfried, Shivane, et al., 2021). GKI should be measured 2–3 hours postprandial, twice a day if possible (Meidenbauer, et al., 2015; Seyfried, Shivane, et al., 2021). 

Intermediate- and high-grade cancers: The ketogenic diet should be coupled with a water fast for 3 to 7 consecutive days in advanced cancers (Phillips, et al., 2022; Arora, et al., 2023). The water fast should be repeated several times (≈ every 3-4 weeks) throughout the treatment (Nencioni, et al., 2018), but fasting needs to be undertaken cautiously in individuals using certain drugs and those with < 20 BMI, to prevent loss of lean body mass. 

For patients who can not fast, the FastingMimicking Diet (300 to 1,100 kcal/day of broths, soups, juices, nut bars, and herbal teas) can be used (Nencioni, et al., 2018). 

7. Additional Therapeutics 

All cancer grades: Moderate physical activity, 3x per week. Increased heart and respiratory rate for a period of 45 to 75 minutes (Bull, et al., 2020) with activities such as cycling, running, swimming, etc.

 

Intermediate- and high-grade cancers or individuals who are unable to engage in physical activity: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), 1.5 to 2.5 ATA for 45 to 60 minutes 2-3x per week (Gonzalez, et al., 2018; Poff, et al., 2015).

2025 studies on ivermectin for cancer

• Yuan Yuan et al (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center) - A phase I/II study evaluating the safety and efficacy of ivermectin in combination with balstilimab in patients with metastatic triple negative breast cancer (ASCO 2025)
• Yuwen et al - A Review of Ivermectin Use in Cancer Patients: Is it Time to Repurpose the Ivermectin in Cancer Treatment?
• Morinaga et al - Ivermectin Combined With Recombinant Methioninase (rMETase) Synergistically Eradicates MiaPaCa-2 Pancreatic Cancer Cells.
• Asano et al - Selective Synergy of Ivermectin Combined With Recombinant Methioninase Against Colon-Cancer Cells in Contrast to Normal Fibroblasts

Ivermectin Safety and Side Effects

Possible side effects could be that you get a cut that will not stop bleeding, or maybe dizziness, altered vision, etc. So there needs to be some consideration and thought given to doses. Ivermectin is a relatively safe drug, but it’s still a DRUG and safety is #1 consideration. There are 105 contraindications, see drugs.com.

Ivermectin has been linked to liver side effects such as elevated ALT and/or AST, elevated liver enzymes, elevated bilirubin, and hepatitis. The drug should be accompanied by adequate monitoring of liver enzymes, especially in patients with previous liver disease such as cirrhosis.

Safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of the antiparasitic drug ivermectin, administered in higher and/or more frequent doses than currently approved for human use, were evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose escalation study. Subjects (n = 68) were assigned to one of four panels (3:1, ivermectin/placebo): 30 or 60 mg (three times a week) or 90 or 120 mg (single dose). The 30 mg panel (range: 34 7-594 microg/kg) also received a single dose with food after a 1-week washout. Safety assessments addressed both known ivermectin CNS effects and general toxicity. 

The primary safety endpoint was mydriasis, accurately quantitated by pupillometry. Ivermectin was generally well tolerated, with no indication of associated CNS toxicity for doses up to 10 times the highest FDA-approved dose of 0.2 mg/kg. All dose regimens had a mydriatic effect (A "mydriatic" is a substance or agent that causes the pupil of the eye to dilate) similar to placebo. (Guzzo et al 2002)

Adverse experiences were similar between ivermectin and placebo and did not increase with dose. Following single doses of 30 to 120 mg, AUC and Cmax were generally dose proportional, with t(max) approximately 4 hours and t1/2 approximately 18 hours. The geometric mean AUC of 30 mg ivermectin was 2.6 times higher when administered with food. This study demonstrated that ivermectin is generally well tolerated at these higher doses and more frequent regimens. (Guzzo et al 2002)

A dose between 0.05 and 0.40 mg/kg does not cause unwanted effects and risk to human life; doses between 6.6 and 8.6 mg/kg are toxic, causing vomiting, blurred vision, mydriasis, ataxia, tremor, and coma, and finally, lethal doses are of 24 mg/kg. (Yuliana et al 2023)

According to Ivermectin's safety data sheet (Merck):

• LD50 (Monkey): > 24 mg/kg 
• Target Organs: Central nervous system 
• Symptoms: Vomiting, Dilatation of the pupil 
• Remarks: No mortality observed at this dose.

Related: Ivermectin Dosage Guide for Humans (2025)

Ivermectin and Cancer Types

In 2020 (Juarez et al) - Antitumor effects of ivermectin at clinically feasible concentrations support its clinical development as a repositioned cancer drug. Ivermectin was tested at 2mg/kg/day which translates to roughly 5uM in vitro concentration. The most sensitive cancer cell lines include Ovarian, Breast, Brain, Lung and Colon. Ivermectin was also found to be synergistic with docetaxel, cyclophosphamide and tamoxifen.

A compilation of more than 200 case reports was published on OneDayMD.com, detailing individual experiences with ivermectin and fenbendazole or mebendazole as a cancer treatment, sourced from social media, patient testimonials, and clinical communications between 2023-2025. These reports were categorized by cancer type, and outcomes were assessed based on self-reported measures such as tumor regression, remission status, and overall survival. 

The anecdotal reports included in this compilation cover a variety of cancer types and describe self-reported outcomes following the use of ivermectin and fenbendazole or mebendazole. These findings, while compelling, must be interpreted cautiously due to the inherent limitations of the data sources. 

The anecdotal nature of these reports precludes definitive conclusions about the efficacy of ivermectin and fenbendazole as a definitive cancer treatment. However, the consistency of positive outcomes across diverse cancer types suggests a potential biological effect that merits further investigation. 

The pattern of case reports also suggests that ivermectin and fenbendazole may exhibit broad-spectrum anticancer properties.

It is imperative that patients consult healthcare professionals before considering ivermectin and fenbendazole as a treatment option. Unsupervised use may lead to unforeseen drug interactions or adverse effects.

Ivermectin causes Heart problems?

Ivermectin has been associated with some cardiovascular effects, but serious heart problems are rare and not fully understood. 

In a 1990 prospective study, thirty-two elderly Liberian men, mean age 61 years, were treated with ivermectin and serial electrocardiograms (EKG's) were performed. Twenty of the 32 (62.5%) had baseline EKG abnormalities including poor R wave progression, 1 degrees AV block, non-specific intraventricular conduction abnormalities, left anterior hemiblock, supraventricular premature beats, left axis deviation, and early repolarization. Twelve lead EKG's were done twice daily, pretreatment and on five occasions post-treatment. No significant changes and no new abnormalities were observed. This study fails to demonstrate any significant cardiac effect of ivermectin on high risk subjects. (PubMed)

Read more: Ivermectin causes Heart problems?

New & Improved Joe Tippens Protocol

In 2016, Joe Tippens was diagnosed with non-small-cell lung cancer with extensive metastatic disease. At the advice of a veterinarian friend, he took Fenbendazole together with nanocurcumin, and three months after starting these drugs his PET scan was completely clear.

Below is a modified version of the Joe Tippens protocol, a synergistic combination of fenbendazole, ivermectin and nutraceuticals, updated based on the ivermectin and mebendazole based protocol published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine (2024):

• Ivermectin (25 mg, 6 days a week) or in the case of severe aggressive cancers up to 1mg/kg/day.
• Mebendazole (Dose of 200 - 400 mg/day) or Fenbendazole, commonly taken at 300 mg for six days a week, with doses increasing to up to 1 gram in cases of aggressive cancers.
• Vitamin D (62.5 mcg [2500 IU] seven days a week).
• Bio-Available Curcumin (600 mg per day, 7 days a week). 
• Enhanced absorption Berberine (500 mg per day) to starve your cancer of sugar.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Eliminate sugar (BMJ 2023), adopt a whole-food diet, avoid ultra-processed foods (BMJ 2024) and a healthy lifestyle with quality sleep and proper stress management. 

*Notes:

• Please note that this protocol now includes the vital Vitamin D addition, with the one day off for the fenbendazole administration. This protocol represents the most comprehensive and cutting edge repurposed drug and vitamin treatment approach to date.
• If you are taking ivermectin and mebendazole, you might not need fenbendazole. Consult your doctor.
• Vitamin E: Removed from the protocol (Joe Tippens, July 22, 2020) due to interactions (e.g., with blood thinners).
• Ivermectin can significantly increase the blood-thinning effect of warfarin (Coumadin), and combining them increases the risk of dangerous or unusual bleeding. It may also interact with other anticoagulants, and patients should be closely monitored by a doctor.
• Ivermectin works best when taken with high-fat foods (Natural News).

References: 

1. Fenbendazole Dosage for Cancer in Humans
2. Top 10 Cancer Fighting Supplements
3. Best Alternative Cancer Treatments 2025: Proven Interventions
4. Top 10 Repurposed Drugs and Metabolic Interventions for Cancer Treatment: Evidence Based
5. Mebendazole vs fenbendazole for cancer
6. Ivermectin vs Fenbendazole for Cancer
7. Ivermectin and Fenbendazole: Treating Turbo Cancer
8. Ivermectin for cancer Treatment: Protocols and Evidence
9. Ivermectin and DMSO for Cancer

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Disclaimers:

• This guide is not intended as personal medical advice, but rather as an informational resource for educational and research purposes. It is meant to support—not replace—the guidance of your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before making any treatment decisions. Remember, cancer is an ongoing battle between the immune system and cancer cells, and this guide is meant to aid the immune system in this fight.
• Cancer treatment should follow a multi-modal approach for the best possible outcomes, with diet and lifestyle changes serving as complementary—not alternative—strategies alongside conventional therapies. Effective cancer care is a coordinated team effort, with the patient at the center. It should be supervised by a primary healthcare provider and involve collaboration between oncologists, integrative practitioners, nurses, dieticians, and other allied health professionals.
• Rather than viewing non-conventional strategies as 'alternative' or opposed to modern oncology, terms like 'complementary,' 'integrated,' or 'holistic' more accurately describe their role. Integrating repurposed drugs and supportive therapies does not mean rejecting conventional medicine—it enhances it. This approach combines standard cancer treatments with root-cause resolution to create a more comprehensive, personalized path toward recovery, resilience, sustainable, and long-term wellness.

The Wellness Company's Ivermectin and Mebendazole

Ivermectin and mebendazole, both approved for human use, are now available in the U.S.

Researched and approved by Dr. Peter McCullough.

• Prescribed by licensed medical professionals
• Compounded and dispensed by a licensed US-based pharmacy
• Approved for human use

Where to buy Ivermectin and Mebendazole Formula: Available on The Wellness Company's website. Here is the link: Ivermectin and Mebendazole.