GENERIC NAME: PYRANTEL - ORAL (pie-RAN-till)
BRAND NAME(S): Pin-Rid
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat intestinal worm infections such as pinworm, round worm and hook worm.
HOW TO USE: Take by mouth, usually as one single dose, or take as directed by your doctor. Pyrantel may be taken with or without food. 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 or drowsiness. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: liver disease, malnutrition, anemia, any allergies. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery if this medication makes you drowsy or dizzy. Pyrantel should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if pyrantel 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: piperazine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: Pinworm infections can easily spread to others. All family members in close contact with the patient should be treated to decrease the chance of spreading the infection. Practice strict hygiene to prevent reinfection. Disinfect toilets daily. Change and launder undergarments, linens, towels and bedclothes daily.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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.
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