If you or someone in your family has been told to take a deworming pill, chances are the doctor mentioned mebendazole. It’s a cheap, over‑the‑counter drug that fights common intestinal worms like pinworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Most people only need a single dose, but the exact schedule can change depending on the type of parasite. Below we break down how it works, the right way to take it, and what to watch out for.
Mebendazole belongs to a class called benzimidazoles. It sticks to a worm’s cellular structure and stops it from absorbing glucose. Without sugar, the parasite can’t produce the energy it needs and eventually dies. Because the drug targets the worm’s metabolism, it doesn’t affect human cells, which is why it’s considered safe for most adults and kids over two years old.
For pinworms, the usual recommendation is a single 100 mg tablet. Some infections, like hookworms or roundworms, may need a repeat dose after two weeks to make sure any newly hatched worms are also killed. Kids under two should not use mebendazole unless a pediatrician says it’s okay.
Take the tablet with water on an empty stomach—ideally a half hour before a meal or two hours after eating. Food can lower the drug’s absorption, so timing matters if you want the best results.
Side effects are usually mild. You might feel a bit of stomach upset, nausea, or an occasional headache. Rarely, people report rash or dizziness. If you notice severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, or an allergic reaction (like swelling or trouble breathing), seek medical help right away.
Because mebendazole stays mostly in the gut and isn’t heavily metabolized by the liver, it interacts with few other medicines. Still, tell your doctor if you’re on anti‑seizure drugs or certain chemotherapy agents, as those can affect how the body handles the pill.
After treatment, most doctors suggest a follow‑up stool test after a few weeks to confirm the parasites are gone. Practicing good hygiene—regular hand washing, keeping fingernails trimmed, and washing bedding in hot water—helps prevent reinfection.
In summary, mebendazole is a simple, effective tool for getting rid of intestinal worms. Follow the dosage instructions, watch for mild side effects, and keep up with hygiene habits to stay worm‑free.
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