pyrantel

Pronunciation: pie RAN tell

Brand: Pin-Away, Pinworm Medicine

What is the most important information I should know about pyrantel?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is pyrantel?

Pyrantel is an "antihelmintic," or anti-worm, medication. It prevents worms from growing or multiplying in your body.

Pyrantel is used to treat infections caused by pinworms.

Pyrantel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pyrantel?

You should not use pyrantel if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

  • liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Pyrantel should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I take pyrantel?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

You may take pyrantel with or without food. This medicine may be taken with milk or juice.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Pyrantel doses are based on weight. Carefully follow all dosing instructions.

Using a laxative will not make pyrantel work better or faster. Tell your doctor if you are constipated.

Call your doctor if you still see pinworms or have symptoms after taking this medicine.

If you live with other people, all members of the household may need to be treated with pyrantel. Pinworm can spread easily to anyone who has close contact with you. Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving this medicine to a child.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Pyrantel is used as a single dose and does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking pyrantel?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

What are the possible side effects of pyrantel?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using pyrantel and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
  • severe dizziness; or
  • ongoing headache.

Common side effects may include:

  • stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
  • diarrhea; or
  • headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect pyrantel?

Other drugs may affect pyrantel, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about pyrantel.

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