Pyrantel

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Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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WHO Essential Medicine

YES

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Known Teratogen

No

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Pharmaceutical Class

NA

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Controlled Drug Substance

No

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Drug Ingredient

Pyrantel

Summary

  • Pyrantel is an antiworm medication. It's used to treat infections caused by roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, and other worms.

  • Pyrantel works by paralyzing the worms in your body. These paralyzed worms are then expelled from your body through your bowel movements.

  • Pyrantel is typically taken as a single dose. For adults and children over 2 years old, the usual dose is 5 mg per pound of body weight. For children under 2 years or those weighing less than 25 pounds, it should be used only under a doctor's direction.

  • Common side effects of Pyrantel include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, and stomach pain. If these symptoms are severe or do not go away, it is important to contact a doctor.

  • Before taking Pyrantel, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it or if you have liver disease. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using Pyrantel. Do not exceed the recommended dosage and keep the medication out of reach of children.

Indications and Purpose

How does Pyrantel work?

Pyrantel works by paralyzing worms in the body, which are then expelled through bowel movements. This action helps to clear the infection caused by roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, and other worms.

Is Pyrantel effective?

Pyrantel is an antiworm medication used to treat infections caused by roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, and other worms. It works by paralyzing the worms, which are then expelled from the body through bowel movements. Its effectiveness is supported by its widespread use and recommendation by healthcare professionals.

What is Pyrantel?

Pyrantel is an antiworm medication used to treat infections caused by roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, and other worms. It works by paralyzing the worms, which are then expelled from the body through bowel movements. This medication is typically taken as a single dose, with the possibility of a repeat dose for pinworm infections.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Pyrantel?

Pyrantel is typically taken as a single dose for pinworm and roundworm infections. For pinworm infections, the dose may be repeated after 2 weeks. For hookworm infections, it is usually taken once a day for 3 days.

How do I take Pyrantel?

Pyrantel can be taken with or without food, juice, or milk. Shake the liquid form well before use, and it can be mixed with milk or fruit juice. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and do not take more or less than prescribed by your doctor.

How should I store Pyrantel?

Store Pyrantel in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Keep it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program, not by flushing it down the toilet.

What is the usual dose of Pyrantel?

The usual dose of Pyrantel for adults and children over 2 years old is a single dose of 5 mg per pound (11 mg per kilogram) of body weight, not exceeding 1 gram. For children under 2 years or less than 25 pounds, use only under a doctor's direction.

Warnings and Precautions

Can Pyrantel be taken safely while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Pyrantel. There is no strong evidence of harm to the nursing infant, but it is important to use the medication only under medical advice while breastfeeding.

Can Pyrantel be taken safely while pregnant?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using Pyrantel. There is no strong evidence from human studies on fetal harm, but it is important to use the medication only under medical advice during pregnancy.

Who should avoid taking Pyrantel?

Before taking Pyrantel, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it or have liver disease. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, and keep the medication out of reach of children. In case of overdose, seek medical help immediately.