Mebendazole is a medication commonly used to treat threadworm infections, also known as enterobiasis. It works by disrupting the worms’ energy production, leading to their paralysis and eventual death. The medication is usually taken as a single dose or over a few days, following your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Mebendazole is taken orally, either as tablets or liquid, and it is important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure all worms are eradicated and to prevent re-infection. The drug is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions or blood disorders.
To prevent re-infection, good hygiene practices are essential, such as frequent handwashing, cleaning bedding, and washing clothes and bed linen regularly. Often, treatment is recommended for all members of the household, even if they do not have symptoms, because the infection spreads easily.
Overall, mebendazole is a safe and effective treatment for threadworms when used correctly, and maintaining high hygiene standards helps control the spread of the infection.
Typically, mebendazole is taken as a single dose to treat threadworm infections, although in some cases, a course of around three days may be necessary for other types of worms. The medication begins to work immediately, but it may take several days to eliminate all the worms. While mebendazole kills the worms, it does not destroy their eggs, so a second dose might be needed after two weeks. Maintaining good personal hygiene is also crucial to prevent re-infection and ensure the treatment’s success.
Mebendazole is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some people. Here are the detailed possible side effects:
Common Side Effects:
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea or mild gastrointestinal upset
Dizziness or headache
Less Common Side Effects:
Skin rash or itching
Fever
Fatigue or weakness
Elevated liver enzymes (detected through blood tests)
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Allergic reactions such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash
Blood disorders, including low levels of blood cells (like leukopenia, anemia)
Liver problems, indicated by jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Seizures or neurological effects (very rare)
Warnings for using mebendazole include:
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment, as overuse can lead to side effects or toxicity.
- Use with caution in individuals with liver disease or liver impairment; consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended in such cases.
- Mebendazole should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women; consult a healthcare provider before use.
- It may cause allergic reactions in some people, including skin rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing—seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
- Re-treatment may be necessary to fully eliminate the infection, and hygiene measures should be followed to prevent re-infection.
- Always follow the dosage instructions carefully and inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
- Keep the medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
