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Mebendazole (By mouth)

Mebendazole (me-BEN-da-zole)

Treats infections caused by worms.

Brand Name(s):

Emverm

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to mebendazole.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Chewable Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Emverm™ chewable tablet: You may chew the tablet, swallow it whole, or crush it and mix it with food.
  • Vermox™ Chewable tablet:
    • You may take this medicine with or without food.
    • Chew it completely before swallowing. Do not swallow the tablet whole.
    • If you have trouble chewing the tablet, place it in a spoon and add 2 mL to 3 mL of drinking water by using a dosing syringe.
    • The tablet will absorb the water within 2 minutes and turns into a soft mass with semi-solid consistency, which you can swallow it.
  • Oral liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Vermox™ Chewable tablet: Keep the bottle tightly closed. Throw away any unused tablets 1 month after the bottle is first opened.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how mebendazole works. Tell your doctor if you are using cimetidine or metronidazole.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease.
  • To help prevent the infection from coming back:
    • Wash your hands often, especially before you eat and after you use the toilet. Make sure to wash under your fingernails.
    • Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly or cook them well.
    • For several days after your treatment ends, use a vacuum or damp mop to clean the bedroom floor. Avoid sweeping with a dry broom because it may stir up dust.
    • Wash all bedding and any clothes you wear while sleeping. Do not shake these items.
    • Make sure your underwear fits closely and wear it both day and night. Wear a clean pair each day. Be sure to wear shoes.
    • During treatment, clean the toilet seats after each use.
  • This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
  • Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
  • Seizures (in children younger than 1 year old)
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Diarrhea, stomach pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2023

 

 
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