Generic
Mebendazole
23 brands available in the market
At a glance
Mebendazole is an antiparasitic medication used in the treatment of worm infections. It inhibits microtubule formation and prevents glucose and nutrient absorption, killing the worms.
Description
Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic active against most nematodes and some other worms. It inhibits the formation of worms' microtubules and causes glucose depletion. After oral administration, about 2-10% is absorbed from the GI tract and peak plasma concentration occurs within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly bound to plasma protein.
Indications
- Threadworms (enterobiasis)
- Whipworms (trichuriasis)
- Roundworms (ascariasis)
- Hookworms (ancylostomiasis)
- Tapeworms (taeniasis)
- Strongyloidiasis
Therapeutic class
Anthelmintic
Pharmacological class
Antiparasitic
Pharmacology
Mebendazole inhibits microtubule formation in worms and prevents glucose and nutrient absorption, leading to glycogen depletion and worm death.
Mechanism of action
Kills worms by inhibiting microtubule formation and preventing glucose absorption.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Threadworms: 100 mg (1 tablet or 1 teaspoonful suspension) single dose; repeat after 3 weeks if needed
- Roundworms/Hookworms/Whipworms: 100 mg twice daily for 3 days; repeat after 3 weeks if needed
- Tapeworms/Strongyloidiasis: 100 mg twice daily for 3 days
Children (>2 years): Adult dose
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take with food
- Take at the same time each day
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea (with massive worm expulsion)
- Nausea
Rare:
- Skin rash, urticaria, angioedema
- Seizures (very rare)
- Neutropenia, agranulocytosis
Precautions & warnings
- Periodic assessment of hematopoietic and hepatic function during prolonged therapy
- Inform patients of potential risk to fetus, especially during first trimester
- Cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection and transmission
- Consult doctor during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Mebendazole or any components
- Children under 2 years
Drug interactions
- Carbamazepine and phenytoin decrease plasma concentrations
- Cimetidine increases plasma concentrations (by inhibiting metabolism)
Food interactions
Safety with alcohol is not known; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Mebendazole may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the fetus. Avoid use, especially during the first trimester.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Mebendazole is probably safe during breastfeeding; limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby. However, caution is advised.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children under 2 years; dose established for children over 2 years.
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; no special precautions needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause gastrointestinal complaints lasting up to a few hours; induce vomiting and purging.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Mebendazole