GENERIC NAME: MEBENDAZOLE CHEWABLE - ORAL (meh-BEN-duh-zole)
BRAND NAME(S): Vermox
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Mebendazole is used to treat intestinal worm infections such as pinworm, round worm and hook worm.
HOW TO USE: This medication is taken by mouth and can be taken with or without food. It may be chewed or crushed, mixed and taken with food. In Canada: The Canadian manufacturer states that their product must not be chewed. For treatment of pinworm infections, the medication is given as one single dose. If necessary, a second treatment may be recommended in a few weeks.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fever, headache, dizziness, drowsiness or rash. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Very unlikely but report promptly: dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, malnutrition, anemia, any allergies you may have. Mebendazole should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if mebendazole is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: cimetidine, carbamazepine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Pinworm Infection - Learn about pinworms and pinworm infection, the most common worm infection in the U.S. Symptoms include intense anal itching, vaginal itching, irritability, and insomnia.
- Trichinosis - Get the facts on trichinosis causes, symptoms, diagnosis, life cycle, prognosis, risk factors, complications and treatment. This food-borne infection is typically acquired by eating undercooked pork.
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