About mebendazole
Anthelmintic medicine
Used for
- Treats intestinal worm infections, including pinworm, roundworm, whipworm, and hookworm.
Usual adult dose
Usually 100 mg twice daily for 3 days; pinworm is usually treated with one 100 mg dose.
Usual dose in children
Usually the same as adults for children aged 2 years and older; pinworm is usually one 100 mg dose.
Common side effects
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Rash
Important warnings
- Avoid in children under 2 years unless specifically prescribed.
- Rarely, seizures have occurred in young children.
- Seek medical advice for severe rash, blistering, or facial swelling.
- Treatment may need repeating for pinworm; household hygiene helps limit spread.
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy unless a clinician determines treatment is necessary, especially during the first trimester.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts are expected to pass into breast milk; short-term use is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Metronidazole: avoid combining because serious skin reactions have been reported.
- Cimetidine may increase mebendazole levels.
- Carbamazepine or phenytoin may reduce mebendazole levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.