Medication Name and Description

Vermox is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication. It contains the active ingredient mebendazole. It is mainly indicated for the treatment of parasitic worm infections.

Indications for Use

Vermox is prescribed for the treatment of common infections like pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), and whipworm (Trichuris trichiura). It is also effective against hookworm infections caused by Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.

Formulation and Presentation

Vermox comes in tablet form and as an oral suspension. The tablet is usually available as a chewable form. Each tablet contains 100 mg of mebendazole. The oral suspension typically comes in 30 mL bottles with a concentration of 100 mg/5 mL.

Mechanism of Action

Vermox works by inhibiting the synthesis of microtubules in parasitic worms. This disrupts cellular transport processes. It specifically interferes with glucose uptake, leading to energy depletion and eventual death of the parasites.

Pharmacokinetic Properties

The bioavailability of mebendazole is relatively low due to poor absorption. It undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver. The primary route of elimination is through feces, with only a minor portion excreted via urine.

Recommended Dosages

The standard dosage for pinworm infections is 100 mg as a single dose. For other common worm infections, 100 mg is administered twice daily for three consecutive days. Dosage may differ in pediatric patients, usually adjusted weight-based.

Administration Instructions

Tablets should be chewed completely before swallowing. For those unable to chew, tablets can be crushed and mixed with food. The oral suspension should be shaken well before each use and accurately measured with a dosing spoon.

Food and Drug Interactions

Vermox may interact with metronidazole, leading to an increased risk of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. The concurrent use of carbamazepine may decrease mebendazole levels. It is recommended to avoid grapefruit juice as it can affect drug metabolism.

Storage Conditions

Store Vermox tablets in a cool, dry place at room temperature, away from light and moisture. The oral suspension should be stored in a tightly closed bottle. Improper storage can affect the potency of the drug.

Monitoring Parameters

Regular monitoring of liver function tests is advised during prolonged therapy. Complete blood counts may also be recommended to check for potential bone marrow suppression. Stool examinations might be necessary to confirm eradication of the infection.

Non-Clinical Data

Animal studies have shown that mebendazole is teratogenic in rats at high doses. It has demonstrated embryotoxicity at doses above human therapeutic levels. No formal carcinogenicity studies have been conducted.

Contraindications and Precautions

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mebendazole. Caution is advised in individuals with pre-existing liver disease. The safety of Vermox in pregnant and breastfeeding women has not been established.

Side Effects Profile

Common side effects include abdominal pain and diarrhea, which are typically mild and transient. Rare but severe adverse effects can include hypersensitivity reactions. Hepatotoxicity and bone marrow suppression are potential risks with long-term use.

Patient Counseling Points

Instruct patients to take the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve before completion. Advise them on hygiene measures to prevent reinfection, such as regular handwashing and laundering of bed linens. Explain the importance of family-wide treatment in case of pinworm infections.

Disposal Information

Unused or expired Vermox should be disposed of properly, following local regulations for medication disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Contact a pharmacist or local waste disposal company for additional guidance.

Research and Development

Ongoing research aims to expand the therapeutic uses of mebendazole, potentially targeting parasitic infections not currently listed on the Vermox label. Clinical trials are also investigating its role in combination therapy with other anthelmintics.

Comparison with Alternatives

Vermox is often preferred over albendazole for its safety profile and ease of administration. Compared to pyrantel pamoate, Vermox is effective against a broader range of parasitic infections. However, its lower bioavailability can be a limitation in certain clinical scenarios.

Global Availability and Access

Vermox is available in many countries under various brand names. Access to the medication varies, with it being over-the-counter in some regions while prescription-only in others. Price and availability can significantly differ depending on location and healthcare systems.