IN EARLY January and the end of August, as part of the back-to-school ritual, parents purchase worm treatment for their children. However, to reduce the probability of worm infestation, all members of the family should be treated.
Worm medicines give the best result if the type of worm that is causing the infection has been identified. In Jamaica, the usual request is for the treatment of "common worms" including threadworms (Strongyloides stercoralis), pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis), roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) and whipworms (Trichuris trichiura).
There are several worm medicines (or anthelmintics) available in pharmacies.
Mebendazole is used to kill most types of worms and reduces the rate of egg production. The dose is specific for each type of parasite and the drug is not to be used by pregnant women or infants under two years old. The tablets that are available in Jamaica may be chewed, swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with food.
Thiabendazole is active against most intestinal parasites. However, it should not be used in cases of mixed infections where roundworms are present. This drug may cause these worms to migrate into the tissues. It should not be used prophylactically or by pregnant or breastfeeding women. In the case of children, thiabendazole is used when the benefits outweigh the risks.
Piperazine Citrate, commonly called "Pip Cit" is an old worm remedy used to paralyse worms. This drug is effective against pinworms and roundworms. It is inexpensive but less convenient than other remedies because of prolonged treatment (up to seven days in some cases) is required. At high doses, seizures and respiratory depression may occur. It should be used with caution in persons with severe malnutrition or anaemia.
Albendazole is commonly used to kill pinworms, roundworms and whipworms. Its absorption is improved when taken with fatty foods. It should not be taken by pregnant women.
Consumers should remember that the weight of the patient is an important factor in calculating the correct dose of worm medicine. Also, re-infection can be minimised by adopting proper hygiene measures such as wearing shoes and washing hands with soap and cleaning under the fingernails, especially before eating and after using the toilet. Fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating them.
- Ellen Campbell Grizzle, Director, Information and Research, National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA)/President, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists.
