Common intestinal parasites that are found in humans include pinworm, hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm, whipworm, Giardia lamblia, coccidia, Entamoeba histolytica, Strongyloides stercoralis, Toxocara canis and cati, and Trichinella spiralis. Each of these parasites is transmitted in a different way to humans, and most are treatable with prescription medications. The five most common prescription treatments for human intestinal parasites include mebendazole (Vermox), albendazole (Albenza), diethylcarbamazine (Hetrazan), ivermectin (Stromectol) and praziquantel (Biltricide).
Mebendazole (Vermox)
According to MayoClinic.com, mebendazole (brand name Vermox) is used to treat roundworms, hookworms, pinworms, whipworms, and multiple worm infections. Some types of intestinal parasite infections in humans also cause anemia, so the doctor may prescribe iron supplements. It keeps the worms from absorbing glucose, which eventually starves the worms so they can be eliminated. Vermox can be taken in either liquid or chewable tablet form.
Albendazole (Albenza)
Drugs.com says that albendazole, or Albenza, is used to treat common worms and may be used to treat tapeworms in some patients. While taking abendazole, patients should avoid contact with people who have colds or the flu because the drug is known to cause lowered white blood cell counts and anemia in a small number of patients, which can compromise the immune system. Other common side effects from these conditions may include bruising easily, fevers and sore throat, or flu-like symptoms. Albenza is usually prescribed on a multi-day cycle, so it's important to take all doses of the medicine on time according to doctor's orders.
Diethylcarbamazine (Hetrazan)
Hetrazan is prescribed by doctors to treat filariasis, loiasis, onchocerciasis and tropical eosinophilia, which are all parasite infections in humans. Drugs.com says that the most common side effect is itching and swelling of the face, but occasionally fever, painful gland areas or skin rashes may occur. After prolonged use, patients may experience loss of vision or night blindness, so always follow your doctor's directions when taking diethylcarbamazine.
Ivermectin (Stromectol)
Ivermectin is specifically used to treat onchocerciasis (river blindness) and strongyloidiasis, according to MayoClinic.com. It may also be used to treat Bancroft's filariasis and scabies. Common side effects of ivermectin include fever, itching and skin rashes; painful glands; headaches and dizziness; and diarrhea. Because ivermectin may cause lightheadedness, driving or operating machinery is generally not recommended while taking the prescription. It may be taken for up to three months to completely get rid of the infection.
Praziquantel (Biltricide)
Praziquantel is used to treat certain worm infections such as tapeworms, snail fever, schistosomiasis and bilharziasis. MayoClinic.com says it is not prescribed for pinworms or other roundworm infections. Common side effects include dizziness, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever and headaches. Occasionally, skin rashes and hives have been reported. The tablets have a distinctive bitter taste that may cause gagging, so the pills should be swallowed quickly to avoid tasting them. Usually the treatment is finished in one day, but the doctor may prescribe followup treatments if infection recurs.
