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Pyrantel

Pronounced

"pie-RAN-till"

Common brand names:

Combantrin

Uses

This medication is used to treat intestinal worm infections such as pinworm, roundworm, and hookworm. Pyrantel belongs to a class of drugs known as anthelmintics. It works by making the worms unable to move (paralyzed) so that the body can remove them naturally in the stool.

This medication may be used to self-treat pinworm infections. For other types of worm infections (such as roundworm, hookworm), use this product only as directed by your doctor. Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years unless directed by the doctor.

How to Use This Medication

If you are taking the over-the-counter product, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. This medicine comes with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully. Be sure you understand how to identify pinworms, understand the symptoms of pinworm infections, and how to prevent becoming infected again. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once as a single dose or as directed by your doctor. This medication may be taken with milk or fruit juice. It is not necessary to take a laxative with this medication.

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your weight, type of infection, and response to treatment. Do not take more than a total of 1 gram in a single dose. If you are self-treating for pinworms, take the medication once only. Do not repeat the dose without talking with your doctor first. Depending on the type of worm infection you have, your doctor may direct you to take the medication only once or for several days. Your doctor may also direct you to repeat the dose in 2 weeks.

If you continue to see worms in your stool or if symptoms last or get worse, or if you think you may have a different type of worm infection or a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2024.