Anthelmintics: What They Do, Medicines
Anthelmintics are medicines that treat infections caused by parasitic worms, often called deworming medicines. Examples include albendazole and ivermectin. Which one is used depends on the type of worm, so a doctor decides. Taking a worm tablet does not stop a new infection, so hygiene such as washing hands remains important.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Anthelmintics work?
Anthelmintics poison or paralyse the worm so that it dies or is passed out of the body. Albendazole stops worms from taking up sugar for energy, while ivermectin paralyses their nerve and muscle cells.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Anthelmintics. They are listed A to Z.
- Albendazole: Albendazole is a prescription deworming medicine used to treat intestinal worm infections such as roundworm, hookworm and whipworm.
- Ivermectin: Ivermectin is a prescription antiparasitic medicine used to treat certain worm infections, such as strongyloidiasis, an intestinal threadworm, and onchocerciasis (river blindness).
Common questions
Do all worm tablets work on every worm?
No. Albendazole is used for roundworm, hookworm and whipworm, while the World Health Organization notes it does not work against Strongyloides, which needs ivermectin. A doctor decides which medicine matches the likely worm, often after a stool test.
How can I stop worm infection coming back?
A tablet does not prevent reinfection. Wash hands with soap before eating and after the toilet, keep nails short, wash fruit and vegetables, drink safe water and use a toilet. Ask a doctor whether others in the household should be checked.
Can worm tablets be taken in pregnancy?
Some can harm an unborn baby. For example, albendazole may harm a fetus. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are breastfeeding before taking any worm tablet.
Sources
- Soil-transmitted helminth infections. World Health Organization
- Albendazole. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Ivermectin. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: P02. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission