Mebendazole is an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections within the gastrointestinal tract. This medication prevents newly hatched worms from growing or multiplying in the body. It eliminates common intestinal parasites such as pinworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Mebendazole’s Action and Treatment Timeline
Mebendazole works by disrupting the cellular processes of parasitic worms, leading to their elimination. Specifically, it inhibits the production of microtubules by binding to beta-tubulin in the worm’s intestinal cells. This action blocks the worm’s ability to absorb glucose, which is its primary energy source. Without glucose, the worms lose their energy supply, become immobilized, and eventually die, then are expelled from the body.
The medicine begins to work immediately after administration, though it may take several days for all worms to be killed and symptoms to improve. The exact duration of treatment and the time until complete elimination can vary depending on the specific worm and the dosing schedule.
For pinworm infections, a single 100 mg oral dose is prescribed. However, because mebendazole does not kill worm eggs, a second dose is recommended two to four weeks after the initial dose to target any newly hatched worms and prevent reinfection.
For other common infections, such as those caused by roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, the dosage is 100 mg taken twice daily for three consecutive days. In some cases, if symptoms persist after three weeks, a second course of therapy may be advised. The slow paralysis and death of the parasites mean their elimination in feces might require several days after treatment initiation.
Managing Symptoms During Treatment
As mebendazole works, individuals may experience a gradual reduction in infection symptoms as the worms are eliminated. Mild and temporary side effects may occur, including abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, or gas.
These gastrointestinal symptoms are mild and resolve on their own. It can be helpful to eat and drink slowly, opting for smaller, more frequent meals. If diarrhea occurs, increasing fluid intake is advisable to prevent dehydration. Should side effects become severe, persistent, or if new, concerning symptoms appear, seeking medical attention is important.
Ensuring Complete Recovery and Preventing Re-infection
Completing the full course of mebendazole, even if symptoms improve quickly, helps ensure the infection is fully cleared. Stopping the medication too early can lead to the infection returning. Since mebendazole does not kill worm eggs, preventative measures are essential to avoid reinfection and transmission to others.
Strict hygiene practices are recommended for at least six weeks after treatment. These include:
- Frequent and thorough handwashing, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
- Keeping fingernails short, avoiding nail-biting, and discouraging finger-sucking.
- Daily bathing or showering, particularly in the morning.
- Regularly washing sleepwear, bedding, and towels.
In cases of highly contagious infections like pinworms, healthcare providers may recommend treating all household members simultaneously, regardless of whether they show symptoms. Follow-up recommendations, such as repeat stool tests, may be suggested by a doctor to confirm complete clearance of the infection.