From the Guidelines
The most effective treatment for parasites in the body is typically achieved with medications such as albendazole, mebendazole, ivermectin, praziquantel, or nitazoxanide, with the specific choice depending on the type of parasite identified. The treatment approach varies based on the parasite, and it's crucial to diagnose the specific parasite before initiating treatment to ensure effectiveness and minimize side effects. For instance, for ascariasis, the recommended treatment is either albendazole PO 400 mg or mebendazole PO 500 mg or ivermectin PO 200 μg/kg, as a single dose 1. Similarly, for schistosomiasis, praziquantel is recommended at a dose of 40 mg/kg as a single dose for S. mansoni, S. intercalatum, and S. guineensis infections, and 60 mg/kg in two divided doses for S. japonicum and S. mekongi infections 1. It's also important to note that the treatment should be guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence, and in cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or the patient is immunocompromised, specialist advice should be sought. Key considerations in the management of parasitic infections include completing the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve before finishing treatment, and being aware of potential resistance patterns, such as increasing triclabendazole resistance 1. Given the complexity and variability in treatment approaches, it is essential to follow the most current guidelines, such as those outlined in the UK guidelines for the investigation and management of eosinophilia in returning travellers and migrants 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Mebendazole tablets are indicated for the treatment of Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), Ascaris lumbricoides (common roundworm), Ancylostoma duodenale (common hookworm), Necator americanus (American hookworm) in single or mixed infections. Ivermectin is a member of the avermectin class of broad-spectrum antiparasitic agents which have a unique mode of action Ivermectin is active against various life-cycle stages of many but not all nematodes. Praziquantel is used to treat the parasite species indicated on the label when used as directed.
The medications that treat parasites in the body are:
From the Research
Medications for Treating Parasites in the Body
- Albendazole and mebendazole are broad-spectrum anthelmintics used to treat various parasitic infections, including intestinal nematode infections, tissue nematode/cestode infections, and filarial infections 5, 6.
- These medications work by blocking the microtubule systems of parasites, leading to inhibition of glucose uptake and transport, and ultimately cell death 5.
- Albendazole is also used to treat trematode and protozoan infections, although its efficacy for these conditions is still being researched 5.
- Other medications used to treat parasitic infections include ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and praziquantel, which are effective against various types of helminths and protozoa 6, 7, 8.
Specific Parasitic Infections and Their Treatments
- Hookworm infections: albendazole has a 72% cure rate, while pyrantel pamoate has a 32% cure rate 7.
- Ascaris lumbricoides: albendazole, ivermectin, and nitazoxanide are effective treatments, with cure rates of 88%, 100%, and 91%, respectively 7.
- Pinworm infections: albendazole and pyrantel pamoate have cure rates of 94.1% and 96.3%, respectively 7.
- Strongyloides stercoralis: ivermectin is the preferred treatment, with cure rates of 93.1% to 96.8% 7.
- Intestinal trematode infections: praziquantel is effective, with cure rates of 97% to 100% 7.
Considerations and Precautions
- Albendazole and mebendazole are generally safe, but can cause liver toxicity and other side effects when used for prolonged periods or in high doses 5, 6.
- Resistance to these medications is a growing concern, particularly for hookworms, Trichuris trichiura, and Giardia sp. 5.
- Combination therapy with multiple medications may be necessary to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of resistance 9, 8.