Examples

Pyrantel pamoate is the only over-the-counter medicine available to treat pinworm infections. The dose of pyrantel pamoate given is based on the person's weight. Two doses are usually given about 14 days apart (as long as no side effects are noted after the first dose). More than the correct dose should not be given at any time.

Pyrantel pamoate comes as a liquid or a chewable pill. Some brands come with a small measuring cup and a weight chart on the box so that you can calculate correct doses. If you have problems calculating a dose or have concerns about the medicine, talk with a pharmacist or your doctor.

How It Works

Pyrantel pamoate kills adult pinworms. It does not kill pinworm eggs.

Why It Is Used

Pyrantel pamoate is a nonprescription medicine commonly used for pinworm infections. It is taken after a definite diagnosis of pinworms has been made by either seeing the worms or doing a transparent (cellophane) tape test. It may also be used if mebendazole (a prescription medicine) is not effective.

Do not give pyrantel pamoate to pregnant women, breast-feeding women, or children younger than age 2 without first talking with a doctor.

How Well It Works

Pyrantel pamoate gets rid of pinworm infections most of the time. But reinfection with pinworms is very common.

Side Effects

Side effects of pyrantel pamoate are not very common but may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These are the most commonly seen side effects.
• Headache, dizziness, and sleeplessness.
• Rash.

If side effects develop after the initial dose, a second dose (normally taken in about 2 weeks) should not be taken without talking with a doctor.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Pyrantel pamoate is often the first medicine used because it is available without a prescription. While using pyrantel pamoate, take measures to prevent reinfection and the spread of infection to others. See the Home Treatment section of the Pinworms topic.

Children younger than age 2 should only take this medicine on the advice of a doctor.

Pregnant women and breast-feeding women should not use this medicine without first consulting a doctor.

Pyrantel pamoate can be taken with food, milk, or juice, or on an empty stomach.

Because pinworm eggs can survive for 2 weeks after treatment with pyrantel pamoate, reinfection can occur. Treatment with a second dose is usually recommended.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.