Mebendazole
Brand: Vermox / Meben (generic)
Antiparasitic
Benzimidazole anthelmintic
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 3 hours |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | Yes (2-amino metabolite) |
| Notes | Poor systemic absorption (<10%); primarily used for GI helminths. Avoid in pregnancy. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Moderate
Adverse Effects:
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, transient ↑LFTs; Rare: neutropenia with prolonged use
Contraindications:
Pregnancy (especially 1st trimester)
Precautions:
Avoid high-dose prolonged therapy; monitor LFTs if treatment >3 weeks