Thiabendazole
Thiabendazole (Mintezol)
Thiabendazole
(thigh-ah- BEN-dah-zohl)
Pregnancy Category: C Mintezol (Rx)

Classification: Anthelmintic

Action/Kinetics: Interferes with the enzyme fumarate reductase, which is specific to several helminths. Readily absorbed from the GI tract. Peak plasma levels: 1-2 hr. t 1/2: 0.9-2 hr. Most excreted within 24 hr, mainly through the urine.

Uses: Primarily for threadworm infections, cutaneous larva migrans, visceral larva migrans when these infections occur alone or if pinworm is also present. Use in the following infections only if specific therapy is not available or cannot be used or if a second drug is desirable: hookworm, whipworm, large roundworm. To reduce symptoms of trichinosis during the invasive phase.

Contraindications: Lactation. Use in mixed infections with ascaris as it may cause worms to migrate.

Special Concerns: Safety and efficacy not established in children less than 13.6 kg. Use with caution in clients with hepatic disease or impaired hepatic function.

Side Effects: GI: N&V;, anorexia, diarrhea, epigastric distress. CNS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, irritability, weariness, giddiness, numbness, psychic disturbances, collapse, seizures. Allergic: Pruritus, angioedema flushing of face, chills, fever, skin rashes, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, anaphylaxis lymphadenopathy, conjunctival injection, erythema multiforme. Hepatic: Jaundice, cholestasis, parenchymal liver damage. GU: Crystalluria, hematuria, enuresis, foul odor of urine. Ophthalmic: Blurred vision, abnormal sensation in the eyes, yellow appearance of objects, drying of mucous membranes. Miscellaneous: Tinnitus, hypotension, hyperglycemia, transient leukopenia, perianal rash, appearance of live Ascaris in nose and mouth.

Laboratory Test Alterations: Rarely, AST and cephalin flocculation.

Overdose Management: Symptoms: Psychic changes, transient vision changes. Treatment: Induce vomiting or perform gastric lavage. Treat symptoms.

Drug Interactions: Serum levels of xanthines to potentially toxic levels due to breakdown by liver.

How Supplied: Chew Tablet: 500 mg; Suspension: 500 mg/5 mL

Dosage
?Oral Suspension, Chewable Tablets
Over 68 kg: 1.5 g/dose; less than 68 kg: 22 mg/kg/dose.