We’re going to take a moment to talk about OTC pinworm medication. By the way, if you didn’t already know, OTC is an acronym for “over the counter”. Pinworm or threadworm is a highly common and contagious intestinal infection caused by small, white, and thread like parasitic worms. Infestation occurs in the rectum and colon after swallowing the eggs and is most common in small and school going children. The females lay their eggs around the anus at night, which spread from one person to the next through beddings, clothes and toilet sheets. Treatment for infestations requires taking prescription medication or OTC pinworm medication.
Vermox, Albenza or Mebendazole are the most common prescription treatment for pinworms. For those who prefer self-treatment from home without consulting a doctor, there are OTC pinworm medications that are also very effective in eliminating pinworms and related symptoms. These over the counter medications come in form of liquid suspension, chewable tablets and pill forms. You can buy them in local pharmacies, major store chains or online at a cheaper price than prescription medications. The two most common and effective over the counter treatment for OTC have pyrantel pamoate as the active ingredient and include:
Pin-rid or Pin-X OTC Pinworm Medication
This is one of the best over the counter pinworm treatment containing pyrantel pamoate as the active ingredient. Formerly a prescription only medication, this FDA approved drug is now available over the counter after confirmation of the diagnosis by a medical professional. The caramel flavor makes it easy to take. It treats intestinal worm infections such as pinworms, roundworms and hookworms and works by paralyzing the worms, making it impossible for them to move, feed or lay eggs and then expelling the worms in form of stool. A single dose is effective in eliminating pinworms within 24-48 hours without mixing with the blood so it does not affect the patient’s body muscles. Since the medication does not kills the eggs, a follow up dose about 10 days later is necessary to kill newly hatched eggs and prevent recurring infestation.
Reese’s OTC Pinworm Medication
Another common and effective over the counter medicine with the effectiveness of prescription medicine is Reese’s pinworm treatment for pinworms. This is also a pyrantel pamoate suspension and is effective with a single dose. You should shake well before use and use the measuring cup to take the correct dosage depending on the person’s weight, infection level and response to treatment. Administer this over the counter treatment to the entire family for successful treatment to ensure no recurrent infestations. In severe and recurring infections, it may require four to six treatment sessions to eliminate the worms.
OTC Pinworm Medication Directions of Use
Before administering any over the counter treatment for pinworm, read and follow the package instructions as well as the patient manual included to understand the symptoms, signs and prevention measures of pinworms. You can take the medication any time with or without food or as your doctor directs you. You can take it with milk or fruit juice and there is no requirement to take a laxative. The dose depends on your weight and nature of infection. The package contains specific dosages for different weight levels and one should not exceed dosages. If you are taking the treatment at home, take only one dose and only take another dose with the advice of a doctor. It is important to see a heath care provider to confirm the presence of pinworms before taking medication.
When is Taking OTC Pinworm Medication Risky?
Pregnant women, breastfeeding moms, children under the age of two, those with liver disease, allergic reactions or other medical conditions should not take OTC pinworm medication without speaking to a doctor about the risks involved. You should also consult your doctor if you are taking any other medication to learn of any risk involved or interaction with the medication that may reduce the effectiveness of the de-wormers.
Pyrantel Permoate OTC Pinworm Medication Side Effects
Pyrantel permoate based medication for pinworm is safe and free from side effects when used as directed. However, an allergic reaction may develop characterized by hives, itching, skin rashes. Mild side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps. Sometimes dizziness, headaches and insomnia may develop in which case one should avoid driving and other risky activities. Consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Since pinworms spread easily from one person to another, it is important to treat the whole family for infestations even if only one member is infected since some other members may have the worms without showing symptoms. After using OTC pinworm medication to treat pinworm infections, preventive measures include maintaining high standards of hygiene including washing and disinfecting toilets, beddings and clothing to prevent new infestations. Every family member should wash his or her hands before eating and after visiting the toilet. You should consult a doctor if you notice the worms in stool or symptoms persist even after taking the second dose to kill newly hatched eggs. He will be able to tell you exactly what OTC pinworm medication is recommended, if you decide against a prescription.
