Mebendazole is indicated for the treatment of threadworms, whipworms, roundworms, and hookworms.

Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic active against most nematodes and some other worms. It is mainly used for intestinal nematode infections. It works by inhibiting microtubule formation in worms and depleting their glucose stores, leading to parasite death. After oral administration, about 2–10% of the dose is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentration occurring within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly protein bound in plasma, and its elimination half-life is 2.8 to 9 hours.

Adult and Child over 2 years:

• Threadworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Single dose.
• Whipworms, Roundworms, Hookworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Twice daily for 3 days.

If reinfection occurs the second dose may be needed after 2 weeks.

Preliminary evidence suggests that cimetidine inhibits mebendazole metabolism and may result in an increase in plasma concentration.

Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mebendazole or to any component of the formulation.

• Gastrointestinal: Transient abdominal pain and diarrhoea may occur in cases of massive infection and worm expulsion.
• Hypersensitivity: Rash, urticaria, and angioedema have been reported rarely.
• Central Nervous System: Very rare cases of convulsions have been reported.
• Haematologic: Neutropenia and agranulocytosis.

Mebendazole is not recommended in pregnant women. It is not known whether mebendazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.

General: Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including haematopoietic and hepatic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.

Information for Patients: Patients should be informed of the potential risk to the foetus in women taking mebendazole during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Patients should also be informed that cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection and transmission of the infection.

Paediatric use: The drug has not been extensively studied in children under two years; therefore, in the treatment of children under two years the relative benefit/risk should be considered.

In the event of accidental overdosage, gastrointestinal complaints lasting up to a few hours may occur. Vomiting and purging should be induced.

Anthelmintic

Store in a cool (below 25°C temperature) and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.