MEBENDAZOLE

Intestinal antihelminthic (dewormer)

Dosage Forms

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Tablets

100 mg
500 mg

Uses

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  • Intestinal worms (roundworm, threadworm, hookworm, strongyloidiasis, tapeworm, whipworm)
  • Echinococcosis (hydatid disease)

Dose and Duration

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Intestinal worms

Adult and child >2 years: 500 mg single dose

Child <2 years: 250 mg single dose

A 3-day course may be required for severe infections

Echinococcosis (in combination with surgery)

1.5 g every 8 hours for 6 months

Contraindications

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  • Children <6 months

Side Effects

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  • Stomach upset
  • Headache, dizziness
  • Allergic reactions

Patient Instructions

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  • Chew the tablet or crush and mix with drinking water
  • Take between meals

Pregnancy

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  • Do not use

Breast-feeding

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  • Can be used

⚠️ Caution

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  • Preferably use albendazole as it is active against more types of worms
  • Treat all family members
  • Repeat dose 2–4 weeks later as re-infection occurs easily
  • All children should repeat the dose every 6 months