Pinworm treatment is usually done with medications like albendazole or mebendazole, which work by paralyzing and killing Enterobius vermicularis, the intestinal worm that causes the infection. Once the worms die, they are eliminated through bowel movements.
Pinworm infection, also known as enterobiasis, is very common in children. Because it spreads easily, it’s often recommended that everyone in the household be treated at the same time, even if they don’t show any symptoms.
Although some of these medications can be bought over the counter, it’s always important to see a primary care provider or pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis, recommend the most appropriate medication, and provide guidance on how to take it correctly.
Common medications
The most common medications used for pinworm treatment include:
1. Albendazole
Albendazole is an antiparasitic medication available as chewable tablets or oral suspension. It works by paralyzing and killing the worms.
It can be used by adults and children over 2 years old. The usual dose is one 400 mg chewable tablet taken once on an empty stomach, or 10 mL of the 40 mg/mL oral suspension in a single dose. The dose should be repeated after 2 weeks, as directed by a doctor.
2. Mebendazole
Mebendazole is another antiparasitic medication used for pinworm treatment. It interferes with the worm’s energy production, causing paralysis and death.
It is available as 100 mg chewable tablets (brand name Emverm) and is approved for use in adults and children over 2 years old. The typical dose for pinworm is 100 mg taken once, repeated after 2 weeks if needed.
3. Pyrantel pamoate
Pyrantel pamoate is also used to treat pinworm infections and can be taken by adults and children over 2 years old. It is available under the brand name Pin-X, among others, in both liquid and chewable tablet forms.
The dosage is based on body weight and should be determined by a doctor. It is usually given as a single dose and repeated after 2 weeks to make sure all worms and eggs are eliminated.
4. Nitazoxanide
Nitazoxanide (brand name Alinia) may also be prescribed for treating pinworm infections in adults and children older than 1 year. It’s effective against several intestinal parasites, including hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm, and strongyloidiasis.
For children, nitazoxanide is available as a 100 mg/5 mL oral suspension, with the dose determined by a pediatrician according to body weight. For adults and children over 12 years old, the usual form is 500 mg tablets.
Is ivermectin used for pinworms?
Ivermectin is generally not recommended for pinworm treatment because it appears to be less effective than other antiparasitic medications like albendazole or mebendazole.
However, it may be prescribed for other intestinal parasitic infections, such as strongyloidiasis, filariasis, or ascariasis.
Natural remedies
Eating garlic in its natural form can help complement medical treatment of pinworms, as it has antiparasitic properties that may help fight the infection and relieve symptoms.
Garlic tea is one home remedy that can be used along with prescribed medication. To make it, boil 3 crushed garlic cloves in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes, then strain before drinking. This tea should not replace antiparasitic medication but can support overall treatment.
How to speed up recovery
To speed up recovery and prevent reinfection, it’s important to follow good hygiene and cleaning practices, such as:
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Washing all bedding, underwear, and pajamas in hot water (above 140°F or 60°C) to destroy parasite eggs;
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Changing bed linens and pajamas daily during treatment;
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Disinfecting all household surfaces with cleaning products or bleach, including furniture, toys, and floors;
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Cleaning the toilet daily, especially after use by an infected person.
While ointments can’t eliminate pinworms, anti-itch creams can help relieve anal itching and prevent scratching, which lowers the risk of reinfection.
Signs of improvement
Signs of improvement usually appear within 2 days of starting pinworm treatment and include elimination of worms in the stool, less anal itching, and improved appetite.
However, symptoms may return even after treatment. This can happen if:
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The medication wasn’t taken correctly;
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The medicine used for self-treatment wasn’t appropriate for pinworms;
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Cleaning and hygiene measures weren’t followed, allowing for reinfection;
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There was contact with other infected people, such as at daycare or school;
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Only the person with symptoms was treated while other family members were not.
To prevent reinfection and ensure full recovery, it’s important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and complete treatment as prescribed.
Worsening symptoms
Signs that the infection is getting worse may include a loss of appetite, abdominal pain, bloating, excessive gas, unintended weight loss, and skin irritation from frequent or intense itching.
Also recommended: Symptoms of Parasites: 7 Signs (with Online Symptom Test) tuasaude.com/en/symptoms-of-pinwormsPossible complications
Complications from a pinworm infection can happen if treatment isn’t done properly and may include weight loss due to poor nutrient absorption as well as genital infections, especially in females, caused by the migration of worms to the genital area.