Uses
Uses of pyrantel pamoate
Pyrantel pamoate is a medicinal product known as an antihelminthic or dewormer. It is commonly used to prevent worms from growing or multiplying in your body, such as pinworm, roundworm, and hookworm.
Pyrantel pamoate may also be used for other purposes; ask your doctor for more information.
How should I take pyrantel pamoate?
For orally taken form, you should:
- Take the dose by mouth or as directed by your doctor.
- Read the label carefully before using pyrantel pamoate.
- Consult your doctor for any information on the label that you do not clearly understand.
Proper storage conditions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. Therefore, 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 it down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. And make sure to always check for the expiration date of the drug. This applies to all drugs or medications you are using. Do not use it if expired. Also, consult your pharmacist for more details on how to safely discard your product.
Precautions and Warnings
What should I know before using pyrantel pamoate?
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are taking other medications
- Have ever had an allergic reaction to any medication
- Have any allergies to any ingredient in the preparation
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using pyrantel pamoate during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Hence, always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking this medication. Pyrantel pamoate is pregnancy risk category C, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:
- A=No risk based on human studies
- B=No risk in animal studies, but not enough data from human studies
- C=There may be some risk as shown in animal studies. Unconfirmed not lack of human studies
- D=Positive evidence of risk
- X=Contraindicated
- N=Unknown
Side Effects
What side effects can occur from pyrantel pamoate?
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite (anorexia)
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Rashes
Not everyone experiences these side effects. Additionally, there may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about the side effects, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
What drugs may interact with pyrantel pamoate?
Pyrantel is known to interact antagonistically with piperazine. These two drugs should not be taken together. However, if necessary, the doses of each may need to be increased. Discuss with your doctor and pharmacist regarding any drug interactions.
Does food or alcohol interact with pyrantel pamoate?
There are no notable food interactions with pyrantel. Hence, it is wise to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist for any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
What health conditions may interact with pyrantel pamoate?
Pyrantel may interact with your health conditions. This interaction may either worsen your health conditions or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.
Do not take this drug if you have any of the following conditions:
- Liver disease (e.g. hepatitis, fatty liver)
- Anemia
- Malnutrition
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug
What is the dose for an adult?
Single or mixed infections due to susceptible worms
Take 10 mg per kg as a single dose.
Trichinosis
Necatoriasis
Take 10 mg per kg each day for 3-4 days or 20 mg per kg each day for 2 days.
Enterobiasis
Take 11 mg per kg repeated once after 2-4 wk. Max dose: 1 g per dose.
Ascariasis
Take 11 mg per kg as a single dose. Max: 1 g per dose.
For mass treatment programs: 2.5 mg per kg as a single dose given 3-4 times a year
What is the dose for a child?
As a tablet
Ages: ≥15 years 500 mg, 10-14 years 375 mg, 5-9 years 250 mg, 2-<5 years 125 mg. Preferably, doses should be given preferably 4 times a year or once every 3 months.
As a suspension
Ages: >15 years 4 teaspoons (20 mL), 10-14 years 3 teaspoons (15 mL), 5-9 years 2 teaspoons (10 mL), <5 yr 1 teaspoons (5 mL).
How is pyrantel pamoate available?
Pyrantel is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Suspension 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL
- 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 your nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you should skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
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