Description
Indications
Mebendazole is employed in the treatment of various worm infections such as roundworm and whipworm.This medication belongs to the class of anthelmintics, acting by eliminating the worms from the body.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, with or without food, as instructed by your doctor. You can chew it, swallow it whole, or crush it and mix it with food.
The dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.
For pinworm infections, typically a single dose is given, with a possibility of a second treatment after a few weeks if needed.
For other common worm infections like roundworm or hookworm, take mebendazole orally as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (morning and evening) for 3 days. Again, a second treatment might be necessary after a few weeks if required.
For other types of infections, follow your doctor’s instructions. Your doctor may prescribe a higher frequency or a longer duration of medication than twice daily for more than 3 days.
Adhere strictly to your doctor’s prescribed regimen. Do not skip any doses and continue taking the medication until you finish the full prescribed amount, even if symptoms vanish. Halting the medication prematurely could lead to a recurrence of the infection.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain, discomfort, or swelling
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- seizures
- rash
- hives
- shortness of breath
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
Caution
- Before starting mebendazole, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including allergies to mebendazole or any inactive ingredients in the product. Inactive ingredients can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Disclose your medical history to your doctor, particularly if you have a history of low blood count (anemia), liver disease, or intestinal problems such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Mebendazole passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Vermox Suspension is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Vermox Suspension suspension:
- 100 mg / 5 mL
FAQ
How does Vermox Suspension work?
Vermox Suspension works by stopping the worms using sugar (glucose). Without glucose, the cells of the worms lose their energy supply and quickly die.
Why does Vermox Suspension require at least two rounds of treatment?
This medication does not kill the eggs of the worm. This is why you may need to take another dose 2 weeks later to help prevent reinfection.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/mebendazole/common-questions-about-mebendazole/
- https://www.rxlist.com/vermox-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mebendazole-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20064631
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-13591/mebendazole-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682315.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/mebendazole.html