| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C16H13N3O3 |
| License | FDA approved (1974); EMA approved |
| Bioavailability | ~2–10% (oral; increased with fatty meals) |
| Legal status | Prescription only (Rx) |
| Chemical Name | Methyl (5-benzoyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)carbamate |
| Elimination half-life | ~2.5–5.5 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) | 100 mg tablets; 500 mg chewable tablets (dose depends on parasite) |
| Pregnancy | Category C – Avoid, especially in first trimester unless clearly needed |
| Brands | Vermox; generics available |
| Protein binding | ~90–95% |
| PubChem CID | 4030 |
| MedlinePlus | a682695 |
| ChEBI | 6693 |
| ATC code | P02CA01 |
| DrugBank | DB00643 |
| KEGG | D00394 |
| Routes of administration | By mouth (oral tablets/chewable tablets) |
Vermox (mebendazole) is an anthelmintic medication used to treat intestinal worm infections in adults and children 1 year and older. Mebendazole works by preventing worms from absorbing sugar (glucose), which causes the worms to lose energy and die. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called anthelmintics and treats parasitic worm infections, including roundworm and whipworm infections.
Vermox tablets can be chewed, swallowed whole, or crushed and mixed with food, depending on the dosage form. The dosage depends on the type of worm infection being treated. Those taking the 500 mg chewable tablet for roundworm or whipworm infections should chew it completely before swallowing.
For pinworm infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe this drug as a single 100 mg dose, which may be repeated after 2 and 4 weeks if the infection persists. For those taking the 100 mg tablet for whipworm, roundworm, and hookworm infections, the standard dosage is 100 mg taken twice daily (morning and evening) for 3 consecutive days.
Children younger than 2 years old shouldn't use this medication unless a doctor determines otherwise. The medication doesn't require any special dietary restrictions or fasting before taking it. All household members may need treatment at the same time for pinworm infections to prevent reinfection. Wash hands thoroughly and practice good hygiene during and after treatment.
The active ingredient in Vermox is mebendazole.
Let your doctor know if you have any history of anemia (low blood count), liver disease, or intestinal conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis before starting on Vermox 100mg.
Use medication only when pregnant if your doctor approves it.
Medication should be kept in a cool, dry place and out of reach of children.
Side effects from using Vermox are possible, and some users may experience stomach / abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, or drowsiness. If Vermox side effects are seen, you may want to stop use and speak to your doctor again regarding intestinal worm killer medication alternatives.
What is Vermox used for?
Vermox (mebendazole) is an antiparasitic medication used to treat infections caused by worms such as pinworms, roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms. It works by preventing the worms from absorbing sugar, which they need to survive.
How does Vermox work in the body?
Mebendazole disrupts the metabolic processes of parasitic worms by inhibiting their glucose uptake. Without energy, the worms die and are naturally eliminated from the body through the stool.
How should Vermox be taken?
Vermox is usually taken orally, with or without food, and can be swallowed whole or chewed. For pinworm infections, a single dose is often effective, while other infections may require treatment over several days. Always follow the exact dosage prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Is a prescription required for Vermox?
In many countries, Vermox is available only by prescription. However, in some places, low-dose mebendazole may be available over the counter. It's important to follow local regulations and consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider before use.
What are the common side effects of Vermox?
Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, gas, and diarrhea. These are usually mild and temporary. Rare but serious side effects can include allergic reactions or liver enzyme changes, especially with prolonged use.
Can Vermox be used in children?
Yes, Vermox is commonly used in children over the age of 2 for treating worm infections. The dosage is typically adjusted based on the child’s age and the type of infection. A healthcare provider should guide its use in children under 2.
Is it necessary to treat all household members?
For infections like pinworms, it is often recommended to treat all household members at the same time, even if they don't have symptoms, to prevent reinfection. Hygiene measures should also be taken to avoid spreading the infection.
Can Vermox be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Vermox is generally not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy unless clearly needed. Its safety during breastfeeding has not been fully established, so a healthcare provider should assess the risks and benefits in both cases.
What should I avoid while taking Vermox?
There are no strict dietary restrictions while taking Vermox, but maintaining good hygiene is crucial to prevent reinfection. Alcohol does not interact directly with the medication, but should still be used in moderation during treatment.
What happens if I miss a dose or take too much Vermox?
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next dose. Do not double up. Taking too much Vermox may increase the risk of side effects such as abdominal discomfort or liver issues. Seek medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g., different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.