What Are the Treatments for Pinworm?

Pinworm is a common parasitic infection caused by roundworms. Many effective treatments are available, all of which are relatively simple to take, thought to be safe for adults and children (with limited use in children under two) and to cause few side effects.

Vermox

Vermox (mebendazole) is a chewable tablet that can treat pinworms in a single dose. It is the most often used method of treatment, usually administered to the entire affected family at once to prevent reinfection.

Albenza

Albenza (albendazole) is an anti-parasitic. Two doses of these single dose medications (the Vermox or Albenza) may be used in patients with heavy infestations; if so, they are typically given two weeks apart.

Pin-X

Pin-X (pyrantel pamoate) or Pin-Rid is taken in two doses, two weeks apart. Pinworm treatments tend to remove only 95 percent of the adult worms from the body.

Combinations

In some girls, worms may make their way into the vagina. Combinations of Vermox (mebendazole) and Stromectol (ivermectin) are used to treat worms when the urinary tract and genitals are involved.

Prescription Medication

Prescription and over-the-counter versions of pinworm medications are available. Treatment should not begin until a diagnosis is confirmed by a physician.

References

• Pinworms
• Pinworm
• Pinworm Infection

Resources

• Infestations That Itch- Pinworms