Therapeutic action
Indications
- Ascariasis (Ascaris lumbricoides), trichuriasis (Trichuris trichiura), hookworm infections(Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus), enterobiasis (Enterobius vermicularis),trichinellosis (Trichinella sp)
Forms and strengths
Dosage and duration
Ascariasis, trichuriasis, hookworm infections
- Child over 6 months and adult: 100 mg 2 times daily for 3 days
- Child over 6 months but under 10 kg: 50 mg 2 times daily for 3 days
Enterobiasis
- Child over 6 months and adult: 100 mg single dose
- Child over 6 months but under 10 kg: 50 mg single dose
A second dose may be given after 2 to 4 weeks.
Trichinellosis
- Child over 2 years: 2.5 mg/kg 2 times daily for 10 to 15 days
- Adult: 200 mg 2 times daily for 10 to 15 days
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
- Do not administer to children under 6 months.
- May cause:gastrointestinal disturbances, headache,dizziness.
- Pregnancy: avoid during the first trimester
- Breast-feeding: no contra-indication
Remarks
- Use albendazole in preference to mebendazole: albendazole is easier to use and is preferred in mixed infections as it has a broader spectrum of activity.
- Tablets are to be chewed or crushed: follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Take tablets between meals.
Storage
– Below 25 °C