Description

Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic that is active against most nematodes and some other worms. Mebendazole is principally used in the treatment of intestinal nematode infection. Mebendazole inhibits the formation of the worms' microtubules and causes the worms' glucose depletion. After oral administration about 2-10% of oral dose is absorbed from Gl tract and peak plasma concentration occurs within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly bound to plasma protein. Elimination half-life is 2.8 to 9 hours.

Preliminary evidence suggests that cimetidine inhibits mebendazole metabolism and may result in an increase in plasma concentration.

Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Mebendazole, or to any component of the formulation.

Gastrointestinal: Transient symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhoea in case of massive infection and expulsion of worms. Hypersensitivity: Rash, urticaria and angioedema have been observed on rare occasions. Central Nervous System: Very rare cases of convulsions have been reported. Haematologic: Neutropenia and agranulocytosis.

Mebendazole is not recommended in pregnant women. It is not known whether mebendazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when it is administered to a nursing mother.

General: Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including haematopoietic and hepatic, is advisable during prolonged therapy. Information for Patients: Patients should be informed of the potential risk to the foetus in women taking mebendazole during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Patients should also be informed that cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection & transmission of the infection.

Paediatric use: The drug has not been extensively studied in children under two years; therefore, in the treatment of children under two years the relative benefit/risk should be considered.