How should I take mebendazole?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
A mebendazole tablet may be swallowed, chewed, or crushed and mixed with food.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Mebendazole will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
You may need to take this medicine for 1 to 3 days, depending on the condition you are treating. However, it could take as long as 3 weeks before the infection is completely cleared.
Wash your hands and fingernails often, especially before you eat or after using the bathroom.
If the infection does not clear up within 3 weeks, you may need a second treatment.
To prevent reinfection, follow your doctor's instructions about disinfecting your home and carefully washing all clothing, linens, and towels. Your family members or other people in your household may also need to be treated with mebendazole or other medicines. Pinworm infections can easily spread from one person to another.
You cannot cure a worm infection by fasting (starving), using laxatives, or forcing yourself to vomit. For best results, take this medicine as directed.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.