Combantrin (Pyrantel embonate)

Combantrin is the brand name of the generic drug pyrantel embonate. Pyrantel embonate is also known as pyrantel pamoate in some countries. This drug is an anthelmintic or deworming agent used to kill intestinal parasites (bulate sa tiyan).

Know the basics

What is Combantrin used for?

Treatment and eradication of the following intestinal parasites:

• Enterobius vermicularis (threadworm, pinworm)
• Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm)
• Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworm)
• Necator americanus (hookworm)
• Trichostrongylus (Colubriformis & orientalis)

How should I take this drug?

For orally taken form, you should:

• Take Combantrin by mouth as directed by the label or your doctor.
• Read the label carefully before using this drug.
• Consult your doctor for any information on the label that you do not clearly understand.

How do I store Combantrin?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of pyrantel that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Know the precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Combantrin?

Before using Combantrin, tell your doctor if you have/had:

• A history of allergy to this drug or any of its ingredients
• An allergic reaction to any other medicines, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals
• Other health conditions

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using Combantrin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication. Pyrantel embonate is pregnancy risk category  C, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

• A=No risk
• B=No risk in some studies
• C=There may be some risk
• D=Positive evidence of risk
• X=Contraindicated
• N=Unknown

Know the side effects

What side effects can occur from Combantrin?

As taking others medicines, taking Combantrin can cause some side effects. Most of them are rarely occurring and do not need any supplementary treatment. However, it is always important for you to consult your doctor if you have any problem after taking this medicine.

Some of the side effects are listed below:

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Severe allergic reactions

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Know the interactions

What drugs may interact with Combantrin?

Combantrin may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with Combantrin?

Combantrin may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Combantrin?

Combantrin may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Understand the dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Combantrin.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 500 mg or 10 mg/kg as a single dose. Your doctor may recommend taking it once every 3 months.

What is the dose for a child?

15 years and older: 500 mg or 4 teaspoons (20 mL) as a single dose.

10 to 14 years: 375 or 3 teaspoons (15 mL) mg as a single dose.

5 to 9 years: 250 mg or 2 teaspoons (10 mL) as a single dose.

2 to <5 years: 125 mg or 1 teaspoon (5 mL) as a single dose.

How is Combantrin available?

Combantrin is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Suspension: 125 mg/5 mL in 10 mL bottle
• Tablet: 125 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.