What is Wormstop?
Wormstop is a brand-name medication that contains the active ingredient mebendazole, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic used to treat various intestinal worm infections. Mebendazole works by depleting the energy levels of the worms by preventing them from absorbing sugar, which eventually kills them. The dead worms are then expelled from the body via the stool.
Wormstop is effective against single and mixed infections caused by a variety of parasites, including:
- Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis)
- Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides)
- Hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus)
- Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura)
- Threadworms (Strongyloides stercoralis)
Some formulations, like Wormstop Plus, also contain additional active ingredients, such as Ivermectin, to treat a broader range of parasitic infections. Always check the specific product label or consult a doctor to know the exact active ingredients and their intended use.
How to Take Wormstop Tablets and Suspension
Wormstop is available in different formulations, primarily tablets and oral suspension, and the method of administration differs slightly for each. The duration of treatment also varies depending on the type of worm being treated. Always follow the specific instructions from your healthcare provider or the product's packaging.
General Usage Instructions
- Tablets: Can be chewed, swallowed whole, or crushed and mixed with food. For chewable tablets, it is important to chew thoroughly before swallowing.
- Suspension: Shake the bottle well before measuring the amount using the provided medicine measure or dosing syringe.
- Timing: Can generally be taken with or without food. However, taking it with a fat-containing meal (like whole milk) can increase absorption. To minimize mild side effects, some sources recommend taking it after breakfast.
- Complete Treatment: Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to re-infection.
Administration for Common Infections
- For Pinworm Infections: A single administration is often prescribed. A repeat administration is typically recommended after two to three weeks to target newly hatched worms from eggs that survived the initial administration.
- For Roundworm, Hookworm, and Whipworm Infections: Administration is usually recommended twice daily (morning and evening) for three consecutive days.
Wormstop (Mebendazole) vs. Wormstop Plus (Mebendazole & Ivermectin)
| Feature | Wormstop (Mebendazole) | Wormstop Plus (Mebendazole & Ivermectin) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient(s) | Mebendazole | Mebendazole and Ivermectin |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits worm's glucose absorption, causing them to lose energy and die. | Combines mebendazole's glucose deprivation with ivermectin's paralysis and death of worms. |
| Scope of Treatment | Broad-spectrum treatment for intestinal nematodes like pinworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. | Treats a wider range of parasitic infections, combining the actions of both drugs. |
| Prescription Status | Can be available over-the-counter or with a prescription, depending on the country. | Is a prescription medicine. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. | Potential for more side effects due to combination therapy; can include vomiting, fever, and fatigue. |
Crucial Hygiene Practices to Prevent Re-infection
Worm infections, especially pinworms, are highly contagious and can easily spread among household members. Proper hygiene is a cornerstone of effective treatment and is just as important as the medication itself. Without these measures, re-infection is very likely.
- Wash hands and scrub under fingernails frequently throughout the day, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
- Bathe or shower daily, preferably in the morning, to remove eggs laid around the anus overnight.
- Wear tight-fitting undergarments both day and night, and change them daily.
- Wash bed linens, towels, and sleepwear regularly on a hot wash cycle.
- Disinfect all toilet seats, bathroom, and kitchen surfaces frequently.
- Regularly vacuum carpets and damp-mop floors, particularly in bedrooms. Avoid dry sweeping, as this can stir up eggs trapped in dust.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked food, and wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While Wormstop is generally well-tolerated, side effects can occur, and certain precautions should be taken.
- Common Side Effects: Include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gas. These are usually mild and may resolve on their own.
- Serious Side Effects: Although rare, more serious reactions have been reported, such as severe rash, hives, swelling of the face, throat or tongue, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat). Seek immediate medical help if these occur.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Mebendazole is not recommended for pregnant women, especially during the first trimester. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Wormstop.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as some may interact with mebendazole.
Conclusion
Wormstop is an effective medication for treating intestinal worm infections, but its success relies on more than just taking a pill. Adhering to the correct administration and treatment schedule, often including a repeat administration, is critical for complete eradication of the worms. Equally important are the hygiene measures implemented by all household members to prevent re-infection and stop the spread of parasites. By combining the medication with diligent cleanliness, you can treat the infection successfully and promote a healthier living environment. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the treatment is right for your specific needs.
For more information on the use of mebendazole, visit the CDC's clinical overview of pinworm infection.
