Generic name: Pyrantel
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Pinworm Medicine?
Pyrantel is an "antihelmintic," or anti-worm, medication. It prevents worms from growing or multiplying in your body.
Pyrantel is used to treat infections caused by pinworms.
Pyrantel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use pyrantel if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pyrantel should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.
How should I use Pinworm Medicine
Use Pinworm Medicine (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
You may take pyrantel with or without food. This medicine may be taken with milk or juice.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Pyrantel doses are based on weight. Carefully follow all dosing instructions.
Using a laxative will not make pyrantel work better or faster. Tell your doctor if you are constipated.
Call your doctor if you still see pinworms or have symptoms after taking this medicine.
If you live with other people, all members of the household may need to be treated with pyrantel. Pinworm can spread easily to anyone who has close contact with you. Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving this medicine to a child.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Pyrantel is used as a single dose and does not have a daily dosing schedule.
Pinworm Medicine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using pyrantel and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
- severe dizziness; or
- ongoing headache.
Common side effects may include:
- stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
- diarrhea; or
- headache.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Pinworm Medicine?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.