Mebendazole

Mebendazole

Did you know that a single tablet could tackle multiple parasitic infections? Mebendazole, a powerful antiparasitic medicine, has become a go-to solution for various worm infestations. This versatile drug has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in treating common parasitic infections affecting millions worldwide.

Let us explore what mebendazole is, its uses, how to use it properly, side effects, and necessary precautions to remember. We will also discuss how mebendazole works in the body and its interactions with other medicines.

What is Mebendazole?

Mebendazole is a powerful anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections. This broad-spectrum drug has been in use for over 40 years and has gained FDA approval for patients older than two years. Mebendazole tablets are effective against several types of intestinal worms, including hookworms, roundworms, pinworms, and whipworms.

Mebendazole Tablet Uses

Mebendazole tablets have many uses, making them an essential part of many treatment plans. From pinworms to hookworms, the mebendazole medicine targets different parasites capable of causing serious health issues if left untreated. 

In addition to approved uses, mebendazole has several off-label applications. These include treating adult intestinal nematode infections caused by capillariasis, cystic echinococcosis, toxocariasis, trichinellosis, and trichostrongyliasis. 

Recent studies have also shown mebendazole may have potential in oncology, particularly for treating cells resistant to approved therapies. It has demonstrated cytotoxic activity and synergises with ionising radiations and chemotherapeutic agents, stimulating an antitumoral immune response.

How to Use Mebendazole Tablets

Individuals should take mebendazole tablets as directed by their doctor. The dosage depends on the disease progression and response to treatment. 

• Individuals can take mebendazole with or without food. 
• In the case of chewable tablets, individuals may chew and swallow the tablet whole or crush it and mix it with food. 
• For those with difficulty swallowing, place the tablet in a spoon & add 2 to 3 mL of water. The tablet will absorb the water and form a soft mass that is easy to swallow.
• Doctors usually prescribe a single dose of mebendazole for pinworm infections. Other common worm infections, such as roundworm or hookworm, typically require taking mebendazole twice daily (morning and evening) for three days. 
• To prevent the infection from returning, complete the entire treatment course, even if symptoms improve. Your doctor may recommend a second treatment after a few weeks if necessary.

Side Effects of Mebendazole Tablets

Mebendazole tablets may cause some side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include: 

• Stomach pain and discomfort
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite

Serious side effects, though rare, are: 

• Liver problems, like yellowing of the eyes or skin 
• Fit or seizure
• Signs of infection (fever, chills, or sore throat)
• A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) includes sudden lips, mouth, throat, or tongue swelling, breathing difficulties, and skin changes. 

Precautions

Mebendazole tablets require careful consideration before use, including: 

• Medicinal History: Individuals should inform their doctor about allergies, ongoing medications, and herbal or vitamin supplements. Due to limited studies, the drug is not recommended for children under two years old. 
• Liver Condition: Patients with liver disease should use it cautiously, as the liver metabolises mebendazole. Those with biliary obstruction need special attention, as the medication is mainly expelled through the biliary system.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant women should discuss the risks with their doctor, as mebendazole is classified as a category C drug. Mebendazole is present in breast milk, so breastfeeding women should exercise caution.
• Hygiene Maintenance: To prevent reinfection, maintain good hygiene practices. Wash hands frequently, especially before & after instances like eating and after using the toilet. Clean bedding and nightclothes regularly. These measures help reduce the risk of parasitic infections returning.

How Mebendazole Tablet Works

Mebendazole, a benzimidazole anthelmintic, impacts parasitic worms by interfering with their glucose metabolism. It works by getting attached to the colchicine-sensitive site of tubulin, which stops the polymerisation of microtubules in parasites' intestinal cells. This action leads to the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules, making it difficult for the worms to absorb glucose and other nutrients.

As a result, the parasites' glycogen stores become depleted, and their energy production decreases. This lack of energy causes the worms to become immobilised and eventually die. Mebendazole also hinders the worms' ability to produce eggs, further preventing the spread of infection.

The medicine is poorly absorbed in the human digestive tract, thus making it an effective treatment modality for intestinal worm infections with minimal side effects. However, changes in the β-tubulin protein can cause resistance, which can reduce mebendazole's effectiveness.

Can I Take Mebendazole with Other Medicines?

Mebendazole can interact with certain medicines, such as: 

• Cimetidine
• Carbamazepine
• Fosphenytoin
• Methotrexate
• Metronidazole
• Nitazoxanide
• Phenytoin
• Ritonavir

Dosing Information

Mebendazole dosage varies and depends on the type of parasitic infection. 

Adults and children over two years old typically take 100 mg twice daily for three consecutive days for common worm infections, such as roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm. 

Doctors usually prescribe a single 100 mg dose for pinworm infections. However, if the infection persists after three weeks, a second course of treatment may be necessary.

Different dosing regimens are recommended for more severe or less common infections. Capillariasis treatment involves 200 mg twice daily for 20 days, while trichinosis may require 200 to 400 mg three times daily for three days, followed by 400 to 500 mg thrice daily for ten days. 

Conclusion

Mebendazole tablets significantly impact the treatment of various parasitic infections, offering a versatile solution for common worm infestations. This versatile medicine targets different types of parasites, from pinworms to hookworms, making it a valuable tool in healthcare. Its effectiveness, coupled with minimal side effects due to poor absorption in the digestive tract, has cemented its place as a go-to treatment for intestinal helminthic infections.

While primarily used for treating worm infections, mebendazole has shown promise in other areas, including potential applications in oncology. As with any medication, following proper dosing instructions and being aware of possible side effects and interactions with other medicines is essential to ensure safe and effective treatment.

FAQs

1. What is mebendazole used for?

Mebendazole is effective in treating various intestinal worm infections, including pinworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. It is effective in curing infections caused by intestinal worms in the gastrointestinal tract.

2. How many days should mebendazole be taken?

The duration of mebendazole treatment depends on the type of infection. For pinworms, a single dose is usually sufficient. For other common worm infections like roundworms or hookworms, it is typically taken twice daily for three days. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate dosage schedule.

3. Is mebendazole safe?

Mebendazole tablets are generally well-tolerated when taken as prescribed. However, like all medicines, they can cause side effects like stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhoea.

4. Can I take mebendazole twice?

Sometimes, a second course of mebendazole may be necessary. If the infection persists after three weeks, your doctor might recommend repeating the treatment. It is important to consult your doctor before taking additional doses.

5. How should I take mebendazole?

Mebendazole tablets can be chewed, swallowed whole, crushed, and mixed with food. Individuals can take it with or without meals. Those with difficulty swallowing can place the tablet in a spoon, mix it with 2 to 3 mL of water to form a soft mass and take it immediately.

6. What happens if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of mebendazole, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

7. What happens if I overdose?

In case of an overdose, you may experience gastrointestinal symptoms  (nausea, vomiting & abdominal pain). While severe toxicity is uncommon, it is essential to visit a hospital immediately if you suspect an overdose. Contact emergency services or your doctor for guidance.