Researchers Launched Four-Year Ivermectin Study
A new international consortium is evaluating ivermectin safety and efficacy for children weighing under 15 kilograms.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Children’s Health
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The IVM-KIDS consortium has initiated a four-year clinical study to evaluate ivermectin use in children weighing five to 15 kilograms. The project aims to fill a critical data gap that currently prevents these children from being included in public health programs.
Why it matters
Current ivermectin-based health programs exclude children under 15 kilograms due to a lack of safety evidence. This research project aims to generate the necessary data to inform regulators and potentially expand treatment options for soil-transmitted helminths and scabies.
The study evaluates generic ivermectin alongside a new 3mg orodispersible formulation for children weighing between five and 15 kilograms. This research is set to span a four-year period across a multinational partnership.
The players
IVM-KIDS
This is an international research consortium composed of partners from Africa and Europe dedicated to studying ivermectin in children.
KCCR-KNUST
This institution is a research center based in Ghana that is leading the coordinated clinical study.
European Union's Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme
This is the primary funding body that is providing financial support for the four-year research and innovation project.
The details
Researchers are investigating the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of ivermectin while assessing the acceptability of a new orodispersible delivery method. The study is backed by an Africa-Europe partnership involving institutions from Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, the DRC, the UK, Spain, and Switzerland.
Timeline
The IVM-KIDS consortium held its maiden meeting in Accra on Wednesday.
The clinical research program is scheduled to last four years.
The Big Picture
The project aligns its research goals with the targets set by the WHO NTD Roadmap for disease elimination.
This study could eventually provide new treatment options for children suffering from scabies and helminth infections who were previously ineligible for medication. Caregivers may see expanded access to child-friendly orodispersible formulations if the trials confirm efficacy and safety.
The takeaway
Expanding pediatric drug research is essential for ensuring that vulnerable groups receive effective medical treatment. This collaboration underscores the importance of filling critical data gaps to support inclusive public health policies.
Further reading
For more information on pediatric wellness initiatives, visit our Children’s Health section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ghana Business News.
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