Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm)
Most common human helminth in Canada.
Common in children and household contacts.
Treatment of the entire household is recommended.
Symptoms
perianal pruritus
| Drug | Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mebendazole | 100mg PO | Repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total) |
| or | ||
| Pyrantel pamoate | 11mg/kg PO (max 1g) | Repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total) |
Alternative
| Drug | Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Albendazole | 400mg PO | Repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total) |
Pregnancy
Treatment of pinworms in the first trimester of pregnancy is NOT recommended due to the lack of safety experience with recommended antiparasitics in the first trimester. If possible, treatment should be delayed until after delivery.
Worm infestations do not require treatment during pregnancy unless they are considered a threat to the health of the mother or her fetus.
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All antiparasitics discussed below are pregnancy risk category C:
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If treatment is required during pregnancy (2nd or 3rd trimester), use either:
Pyrantel pamoate 11mg/kg PO once then repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total)
or
Pyrvinium pamoate 5mg/kg PO (after a meal) once then repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total) -
Drug of choice FOLLOWING DELIVERY:
Mebendazole 100mg PO once then repeat in 2 weeks (2 doses total). Can be given to breastfeeding women since only 2-10% of a dose is absorbed and levels in the breast milk are undetectable.
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