Is over-the-counter pinworm medication effective?

Pinworms can usually be treated completely with two doses of over-the-counter medicine called pyrantel pamoate, available in the United States under the brand names Pin-X and Reese’s Pinworm Medicine. Take one dose immediately and another dose two weeks later.

Do you need a prescription for pinworm medicine?

The medications used for the treatment of pinworm are either mebendazole, pyrantel pamoate, or albendazole. Any of these drugs are given in one dose initially, and then another single dose of the same drug two weeks later. Pyrantel pamoate is available without prescription.

Can pinworms go away on their own?

Threadworms do not go away by themselves, and people do not build up immunity to them, so they must be treated in order to eradicate them totally from the body.

What is the best pinworm medication?

The most common and effective prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications for pinworm infections include:

• mebendazole (Vermox)
• albendazole (Albenza)
• pyrantel pamoate (Reese’s Pinworm Medicine)

Do pinworms itch in daytime?

The worm may be seen around the anus or on the child’s bottom. It is especially active at night or early morning. Rarely, the pinworm is seen on the surface of a stool. The pinworm’s secretions are a strong skin irritant and cause the itching.

How quickly does pinworm medication work?

Reese’s OTC Pinworm Medicine can take up to 72 hours to fully rid the system of pinworms. During this time, itching is common. Reese’s Pinworm Itch Relief Wipes can be used to provide relief from the associated itching and irritation.

What are the side effects of Pinworm Medicine?

Reeses Pinworm Medicine is a generally well tolerated medication. Some common side effects include: Abdominal pain. Loss of appetite. Diarrhea. Gas. Nausea and vomiting.

What are the different types of pinworm medications?

Pyrantel pamoate

Do you need prescription for over the counter drugs?

Over-the-counter medications can still carry a risk, even though they do not require a prescription. There is the possibility of side effects, drug interactions, or harm due to excessive doses.