Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

THIABENDAZOLE - ORAL

(thigh-ah-BEN-dah-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mintezol

Uses

This medication is used to treat roundworm infections such as threadworm, hookworm/creeping eruption (cutaneous larva migrans), and visceral larva migrans (toxocariasis). This medication is also used for other types of roundworm infections such as pinworm, whipworm, large roundworm (ascariasis), and trichinosis when other therapies have failed or are unavailable.

How To Use

This medication is generally taken by mouth, twice daily after meals, or as directed by your doctor. The tablet formulation must be chewed before swallowing. If taking the oral liquid, shake well before each dose. Your dosage is dependent upon your weight. Cutaneous larva migrans may also be treated topically. Your pharmacist will prepare a lotion or ointment for you if so prescribed. It is important that you take this medication for the prescribed duration. The duration of your therapy will depend on the type of infection and your response to treatment.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: seizures, tingling of hands/feet, mental/mood changes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: ringing in the ears, vision changes, stomach pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, fever, fatigue, increased thirst, change in the amount of urine. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

This medication should not be used as prophylactic treatment for pinworms or any other worm infections. This medication should not be used if you have a mixed infection with the Ascaris type of roundworm. This drug may cause the Ascaris worms to spread in your body, and possibly appear in your nose and mouth. Contact your doctor if this should occur. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, dehydration, poor nutrition, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Drug Interactions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: theophylline. 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. Symptoms of overdose may include: vision changes or mental/mood changes.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress. Practice strict personal hygiene to prevent reinfection. Wash hands with soap and clean under fingernails often. Change and wash undergarments, towels, bedsheets, and bedclothes daily.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.