Mebendazole

About mebendazole

Mebendazole works by preventing the worm from absorbing essential sugars needed for survival. This leads to the eventual death of the parasite within a few days.

Before taking mebendazole

Before taking mebendazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• If you are also taking metronidazole (an antibiotic) or cimetidine (used to lower acid levels in the stomach)

Mebendazole is not recommended for children under 2 years of age

How to take mebendazole

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor
• Everyone in the family should be treated with mebendazole to prevent re-infection
• If you have been prescribed mebendazole for threadworm it is usually taken as a single dose. A second dose may be necessary after 2 weeks in case of re-infection.
• Mebendazole is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. If your family is being treated and you have a child under 2 years old ask your doctor for advice.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Threadworms are small parasites, which live inside the bowel for a short time. They are relatively common in children and adults and can be easily passed from one person to another. The female lays her eggs at night around the anus (back passage) which causes irritation. The itching causes scratching, which allows the tiny eggs to get under the fingernails. If the fingers are then put in the mouth, for example during sleep, the eggs may be swallowed. The worms then develop in the bowel and produce more eggs. Eggs can easily get onto bedding, carpets, towels and into the house dust. They can also get onto food and again be swallowed.

• Wash hands and scrub nails before preparing or eating a meal, and after each visit to the toilet
• Wearing underwear below pyjamas and bathing immediately after waking will help prevent re-infection
• Disinfect the toilet seat, handle and door handle regularly
• Vacuum carpets daily, and disinfect work surfaces
• Keep fingernails short and clean and avoid biting nails or sucking fingers
• Have a separate towel for each member of the family
• Change and wash clothing and bedding frequently
• All members of the family should take the first dose of mebendazole on the same day
• Follow these precautions for at least 6 weeks after the first dose of mebendazole

Can mebendazole cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Mebendazole may cause the following:

How to store mebendazole

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines