Mebendazol Teva (Mebendazole)

Mebendazole is an anthelmintic medication used to treat a range of intestinal helminth infections, targeting adult worms in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Ascaris lumbricoides infection: eradicates adult roundworms, relieving abdominal discomfort and preventing further transmission.
• Trichuris trichiura infection: removes whipworms, reducing intestinal inflammation and associated rectal bleeding.
• Hookworm infection: destroys hookworms, alleviating anemia and gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Enterobius vermicularis infection: eliminates pinworms, stopping perianal itching and interrupting the infection cycle.

Overall, therapy results in parasite clearance and relief of associated gastrointestinal symptoms.

• Mebendazole binds selectively to β‑tubulin of susceptible parasites, inhibiting microtubule polymerisation. This disruption impairs glucose uptake and other essential metabolic processes, leading to depletion of energy stores and eventual death of the helminth. Because the compound is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal lumen, therapeutic concentrations are achieved primarily within the intestinal lumen where the parasites reside.

Mebendazole is generally well tolerated, but several adverse reactions have been reported.

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal pain: mild to moderate discomfort in the stomach area, often transient.
• Nausea or vomiting: occasional upset stomach that may lead to vomiting.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that are usually self‑limiting.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain without neurological signs.
• Skin rash: mild erythematous eruption that may itch.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: signs of liver injury such as jaundice, dark urine, or elevated enzymes.
• Neutropenia: reduced white blood cell count increasing risk of infections and fever.
• Severe skin reactions: including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Alopecia: hair loss that may be temporary.

When using Mebendazole, certain precautions should be observed to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Pregnancy: category B, use only if clearly needed after risk‑benefit assessment.
• Breastfeeding: small amounts excreted in milk; consider alternatives or monitor infant.
• Age: dosage for children should be determined by a healthcare professional.
• Liver function: caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor liver enzymes.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Mebendazole may interact with other medicines, affecting its absorption or toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Cimetidine: may increase systemic exposure; avoid combination.
• Griseofulvin: may reduce anthelmintic efficacy.
• Carbamazepine, phenytoin, or other enzyme‑inducing anticonvulsants: may lower plasma levels of mebendazole.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely.
• Theophylline: possible increase in plasma concentration; observe for toxicity.
• Oral contraceptives: may experience reduced effectiveness; consider additional contraceptive measures.