Mebendazole
Mechanism :
Mebendazole is a broad spectrum anti-helminthic. The principal mode of action is by its inhibitory effect on tubulin polymerization which results in the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules.
Indication :
- Enterobiasis
- Trichuriasis
- Ascariasis
- Ancylostomiasis
Contraindications :
Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to benzimidazole class of compounds, in pregnancy, and in children <2 years of age.
Dosing :
To be given in children 2 years and above.
Pinworm:
100 mg PO once, may repeat in 2 weeks.
Whipworm, hookworm, roundworm:
100 mg PO bid x 3-5 days, may repeat in 3-4 weeks.
Adverse Effect :
Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, abnormal liver function tests, headache, dizziness, vertigo, raised intracranial pressure, meningeal signs, reversible alopecia, fever, exanthema, urticaria, angioedema, heart pain, sore throat, hypersensitivity reaction, seizures, neutropenia (prolonged, high dose use), agranulocytosis (prolonged, high dose use), hepatitis (prolonged, high dose use).
Interaction :
Phenytoin or Carbamazepine: Plasma concentrations may be lowered.
Cimetidine: Increased plasma mebendazole concentrations.
Metronidazole: Steven-Johnsons syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Bismuth Subsalicylate, Sodium Iodide 131, Tetracyclines: Also react.
Renal Dose :
Dose in Renal Impairment GFR (mL/min)
| 20-50 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| 10-20 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| <10 | Dose as in normal renal function |
Dose in Patients undergoing Renal Replacement Therapies
| CAPD | Unlikely to be dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HD | Unlikely to be dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HDF/High flux | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
| CAV/VVHD | Unlikely to be dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
Hepatic Dose :
No dose adjustments are recommended.