Which medications are used for treatment?
Drugs that are effective against threadworms, as well as the pinworm, are called anthelmintics. The most commonly prescribed active ingredients are mebendazole (e.g. Vermox) and pyrantel (e.g. Helmex).
Tiabendazole, piperazine derivatives and pyrvinium can also be used. All active ingredients kill both the adult worms and their larval stages. Usually a single dose is administered, which should be taken repeatedly after two weeks to get rid of the worms. It is recommended that close family members, such as the parents of affected children, are also treated, even if they do not yet notice any symptoms. Most of the active ingredients work mainly in the intestine and are hardly absorbed, but side effects may occur occasionally.
Are there also over-the-counter medications available?
The active ingredient pyrvinium (e.g. Molevac) can be obtained without prescription from pharmacies. It is only effective against the pinworm, whereas the other substances have a broader spectrum of activity and can also be used for other worm diseases. Mebendazole, Pyrantel and others are available only on prescription and must be prescribed by a doctor. However, if worm infestation is suspected, the patient should not be treated arbitrarily. Confirmation of the suspected diagnosis and adaptation of the therapy to the extent of the infestation and other factors, such as age and body weight, are necessary.
Can homeopathy help?
The effectiveness of homeopathic therapies has not been proven according to current scientific studies.Since the worms can be spread without adequate therapy and other people can be infected, drug therapy is always recommended. If desired, homeopathic remedies can also be used. However, they do not replace treatment with antihelminthic drugs
Pinworms during pregnancy – Is it that dangerous?
An infestation with pinworms during pregnancy is not necessarily threatening. The worms remain in the intestine and do not pose a danger to the unborn child. Only in the case of massive infestation and inflammation in the intestine can the worm infestation have a negative effect on the pregnancy.
Even at birth, infection of the newborn is possible through eggs that stick in the anal/genital region. Therefore, in case of infection with pinworms during pregnancy, treatment with an antihelminthic should be administered. Not all active ingredients are suitable for a pregnant woman.
However, pyrvinium, mebendazole and noclosamide are listed as suitable for use during pregnancy. However, a suitable therapy should be discussed with a doctor.
