Mebendazole Chewable tablet

What is this medicine?

MEBENDAZOLE (me BEN da zole) is an anthelmintic. It will kill some kinds of parasites. This medicine is used to treat infections of roundworms, hookworms, pinworms, and whipworms.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• stomach, intestine or bowel disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to mebendazole, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. The dose can be chewed, swallowed, or crushed and mixed with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• carbamazepine

• cimetidine

• phenytoin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional after your treatment as directed. If you still have symptoms after 3 weeks you may need to be treated again. You may need blood work to check for anemia.

Some parasites are spread easily by close contact. Other people in your house may need treatment. Follow your doctor's directions on how to prevent the spread of the infection. Wash your hands, scrub your fingernails and shower often. Wear tight fitting undergarments day and night. Change and wash them daily. Change and wash bedclothes and linens after treatment. Disinfect toilets as needed. For several days after treatment, vacuum or damp mop the bedroom floors. To avoid stirring up eggs trapped in dust, do not sweep floors or shake out personal items.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• fever or chills, sore throat

• seizure

• trouble breathing

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• dizziness

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.