Pyrantel (Antiminth)

Category:

• Antihelmintic

Description:

• Depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent

Indications:

• Ascariasis (roundworm)

• Enterobiasis (pinworm)

Contraindications:

Patients with hepatic disease

  Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C

• Medication administered as a single dose.

• Patient will purge worms in feces.

• Worm removal may take up to 3 days.  If not cured in three weeks, retreat.

• Monitor patients with hepatic or renal dysfunction.

• Helmintic infections are very communicable.  Treat the entire family/household.

• Adhere to strict hygiene to prevent re-infection.

• Not necessary to use a post-therapy laxative to assist in purging of worms.

  Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• GI upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping)

• CNS (headache, dizziness, drowsiness)

• Rash

Dosage:

Administered orally

Single dose:

• 11mg/kg (up to 1 gram) administered as a single, one time dose