Ovex (Mebendazole) for Threadworm infection

Prescription only version is known as Vermox

Single dose tablet for individuals

Family pack flavoured drink (6 single-dose treatments available)

Family pack flavoured chewable tablet (4 single-dose treatments available)

ABOUT OVEX

WHAT IS OVEX?

Ovex (Mebendazole) is a medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections, including threadworm.
It belongs to a group of medications called anthelminthics
Threadworm is a worm infection of the digestive system, especially affecting the intestines.

HOW LONG DOES OVEX TAKE TO WORK?

Starts to take effect immediately but may take a few days to kill off all the worms.

WHO IS OVEX SUITABLE FOR?

2 years+ off prescription

6 months+ with prescription, under medical supervision only if there are no alternatives.

Who cannot take Ovex:

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Breastfeeding: amount in milk most likely too small to be harmful, but manufacturer advises avoid.
Under 2 years for OTC sale
Under 6 months if have a prescription

OVEX WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS

The following medicines may cause a reaction:

Cimetidine – increases amount of Ovex in the body (increased risk of side-effects). Best to avoid.
Metronidazole – a serious skin reaction can rarely occur. Avoid unless no alternative and urgent need.

HOW TO TAKE OVEX:

Everyone in the household must take Ovex (unless not suitable) whether they have symptoms or not.
Tablet can be chewed, crushed or swallowed whole.

Took more Ovex than you should:

OVEX SIDE-EFFECTS:

Possible side-effects from Ovex include:

Common:

Uncommon:

Rare but potentially serious; stop taking and speak to a doctor immediately:

Blisters on skin, mouth or genitals
Yellowing of skin or eyes, sign of possible liver damage.
Dizziness
Weakened immune system due to lower white blood cells (neutropenia)
Hair loss
Inflammation of kidneys (pain in lower-upper back, blood in urine, general unwellness)

Call 999 or go to A+E immediately if you experience:

OTHER WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS:

If get severe diarrhea for more than a day, this may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Please follow advice with that pill, recommended to use extra barrier methods such as condom until diarrhea improves.
Drinking alcohol is OK but if causes dizziness significantly reduce it.

Hygeine methods can help avoid cycle of re-infection

Wash hands and fingernails regularly
Keep fingernails short
Rinse toothbrushes before brushing
Wash clothes worn, towels used etc every day at a warm temperature until many days after got better
Disinfect surfaces with hot water
Wear underwear at night to be changed in morning
Do not shake clothing or bedding (eggs may land on other surfaces)
Avoid sharing items

OVEX INGREDIENTS – TABLET

Microcrystalline cellulose

Sodium starch glycollate

Talc

Maize starch

Sodium saccharin

Magnesium stearate

Cottonseed oil – hydrogenated

Orange flavour

Colloidal anhydrous silica

Sodium laurylsulfate

Orange yellow S (E110) – CAUTION: may cause allergic reactions