What Are the Treatments for Roundworms?

Roundworms are parasitic organisms that live within the body of humans. You can become infected with roundworms when you come in contact with eggs or larvae, which are found in the soil and transferred by mouth or through the skin. People often do not realize they are infected, because they do not have any symptoms. If you have a severe roundworm infection, you will likely need a prescription medication to treat and kill the roundworms.

Pyrantel Pamoate

• Pyrantel pamoate contains an agent that treats and kills roundworms. It paralyzes the roundworm's nervous system, causing the worm to die and pass through the stool. This medication may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Take pyrantel pamoate once daily for three to four days or as prescribed by your physician. If you are allergic to products containing pyrantel, have liver problems or are pregnant, consult with your physician.

  You may have dizziness, diarrhea, or drowsiness while using this medication. You should not drive or operate machinery until you see how this medication will affect you.

Mebendazole

• Vermox is the brand name of mebendazole, used to treat roundworms, hookworms and pinworms. Mebendazole works by keeping roundworms from absorbing sugar. Lack of sugar absorption causes a lack of energy in the roundworm and eventually death. Vermox comes in tablets or liquid, and is only given by prescription.

  It is normally taken once in the morning and again in the evening and comes in a single dose or three-day treatment. To clear up roundworm infection, take all the medication as prescribed by your physician. Sometimes a second round of medication is needed to completely clear the body of roundworms.

Albendazole

• Albendazole comes in a tablet and is used to treat roundworms and other internal parasites by preventing reproduction. Albendazole should be taken with food. Continue taking the course of medication until all the tablets are gone. This will ensure that all parasites are dead and will help prevent roundworms from reoccurring.

Home Treatment

• Roundworm reinfection is common, but there are things that you can do at home for prevention. Clean your toilet seat at least twice a day, using a cleanser that contains bleach. Vacuum and dust carpets, draperies and mattresses. Vacuuming will get up any unseen larvae and eggs. Wash all contaminated bed linens and clothing.