Content
Mebendazole is an antiparasitic remedy that acts against parasites that invade the intestine, such as Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
This remedy is available in tablets and oral suspension and can be purchased at pharmacies under the trade name Pantelmin.
What is it for
Mebendazole is indicated for the treatment of simple or mixed infestations by Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus.
How to use
The use of mebendazole varies according to the problem to be treated, and the general guidelines include:
1. Pills
The recommended dose is 1 tablet of 500 mg of mebendazole in a single dose, with the help of a glass of water.
2. Oral suspension
The recommended dose of mebendazole oral suspension is as follows:
- Nematode infestations: 5 mL of the measuring cup, 2 times a day, for 3 consecutive days, regardless of body weight and age;
- Cestode infestations: 10 mL of the measuring cup, 2 times a day, for 3 consecutive days in adults and 5 mL of the measuring cup, 2 times a day, for 3 consecutive days, in children.
Learn to identify a worm infestation by taking our online test.
Possible side effects
Generally, mebendazole is well tolerated, however, in rare cases side effects such as stomach pain and short-term diarrhea, rash, itching, shortness of breath and / or swelling of the face, dizziness, problems with blood, liver and kidney. If any of these side effects occur, you should go to the doctor immediately.
Who should not use
Mebendazole is contraindicated for people with hypersensitivity to the components of the formula and in children under 1 year of age.
In addition, this medicine should also not be used by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, without the doctor's guidance.
How to prevent worm infestation
Some precautions that must be taken to prevent worms are washing and disinfecting fruits and vegetables before consuming them, eating only well-done meat, consuming treated or boiled water, washing hands after using the bathroom and before handling food , check if restaurants have a sanitary license, use condoms in all sexual relations.