Helben Oral Suspension
Mebendazole
Indications
Helben is indicated for the treatment of threadworms, whipworms, roundworms and hookworms.
Pharmacology
Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic that is active against most nematodes and some other worms. Mebendazole is principally used in the treatment of intestinal nematode infection. Mebendazole inhibits the formation of the worms’ microtubules and causes the worms’ glucose depletion. After oral administration about 2-10% of oral dose is absorbed from Gl tract and peak plasma concentration occurs within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly bound to plasma protein. Elimination half-life is 2.8 to 9 hours.
Dosage & Administration
Adult and Child over 2 years-
- Threadworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Single dose.
- Whipworms, Roundworms, Hookworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Twice daily for 3 days.
If reinfection occurs the second dose may be needed after 2 weeks.
Interaction
Preliminary evidence suggests that cimetidine inhibits Helben metabolism and may result in an increase in plasma concentration.
Contraindications
Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Mebendazole, or to any component of the formulation.
Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal: Transient symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhoea in case of massive infection and expulsion of worms.
- Hypersensitivity: Rash, urticaria and angioedema have been observed on rare occasions.
- Central Nervous System: Very rare cases of convulsions have been reported.
- Haematologic: Neutropenia and agranulocytosis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Mebendazole is not recommended in pregnant women. It is not known whether mebendazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when it is administered to a nursing mother.
Precautions & Warnings
General: Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including haematopoietic and hepatic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.
Information for Patients: Patients should be informed of the potential risk to the foetus in women taking Helben during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Patients should also be informed that cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection & transmission of the infection.
Use in Special Populations
Paediatric use: The drug has not been extensively studied in children under two years; therefore, in the treatment of children under two years the relative benefit/risk should be considered.
Overdose Effects
In the event of accidental overdosage, gastrointestinal complaints lasting up to a few hours may occur. Vomiting and purging should be induced.
Therapeutic Class
Anthelmintic
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool (Below 25°C temperature) and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
