Pinworms, also known as threadworms, are the most common type of intestinal worm infection in the United States. Infection results from inhalation or ingestion of pinworm eggs from dust, direct person-to-person contact, infected objects such as bedding, clothing and toys and contaminated food or drink. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eradicating pinworms includes medication for the entire family, household treatments and efforts to ensure good hygiene.
Mebendazole
Mebendazole is prescribed by a doctor to kill a host of worm infections including threadworms. The drug works by keeping the worms from absorbing necessary nutrients for survival, thereby leading weakness and eventual death. This drug comes in a chewable tablet and may either be taken twice a day for three days, or in a single dose. Treatment is usually repeated within two to three weeks in order to clear the infection completely. Side effects may include diarrhea or stomach pain.
Albendazole
Albendazole kills worms in the same manner as mebendazole. This prescription drug comes in a tablet form that is swallowed whole with food. Treatment may be repeated after two to three weeks. Possible but rare side effects are fever, rash or itching, thinning or loss of hair, sore throat, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting.
Pyrantel Pamoate
Pyrantel pamoate is the only medication available without a prescription to treat pinworm infection and may be used if mebendazole is ineffective. The medication kills adult threadworms but does not kill the eggs. Pyrantel pamoate is available in a liquid or chewable form and the amount taken is determined from the person's weight. Two treatments are usually given 14 days apart if no side effects are present after the first dose. Side effects, though rare, may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, headache, rash and sleeplessness.
Prevention
According to MayoClinic.com, threadworm eggs can live on surfaces for two to three weeks. In order to prevent the spread of eggs and the possibility of re-infection, several precautions should be taken. All persons living in the home should take the medication simultaneously. Household surfaces should be clean and dusted, household members should take showers rather than baths and they should be taken in the morning to reduce the number of pinworm eggs on the body. Washing all sheets, night clothes, underwear and towels in hot water is also recommended. Scratching the anal area and biting fingernails are discouraged; children's nails should be trimmed. Washing hands thoroughly after using the restroom and before eating is also essential.
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