Vermox Side Effects

Generic name: mebendazole

Note: This document contains side effect information about mebendazole. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Vermox.

Some side effects of Vermox may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to mebendazole: compounding powder, oral tablet chewable

Stop taking mebendazole (the active ingredient contained in Vermox) and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of your throat; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take mebendazole and talk to your doctor if you experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, or a fever.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to mebendazole: compounding powder, oral tablet chewable

General

Since mebendazole (the active ingredient contained in Vermox) is not well absorbed, few systemic side effects are reported. Side effects may be more likely and more severe in patients with underlying liver disease.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, especially when the intestinal parasite burden is great.

Hepatic

Increased liver function tests have been associated with mebendazole (the active ingredient contained in Vermox) in patients with hepatic hydatid cysts.

Hepatic side effects have included transient changes in liver function tests and granulomatous hepatitis. These side effects have been reported when mebendazole was taken for prolonged periods and at dosages substantially above those recommended.

Hematologic

Bone marrow biopsy results during mebendazole-associated leukopenia or pancytopenia have revealed hypocellularity. These effects reverse upon drug discontinuation.

Hematologic side effects are unusual and reversible, but may be severe. Profound leukopenia, often accompanied by anemia and thrombocytopenia, has been reported. Pancytopenia and neutropenia have also been reported.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included rare reports of alopecia and angioedema. Rash, pruritus, urticaria, and flushing have also been reported.

Other

No evidence of hypersensitivity (eosinophilia, rash, leukocytosis) accompanied the rare reports of drug fever. The fever may have been idiosyncratic or evidence of a reaction to drug-induced tissue necrosis in hydatid cysts.

Other side effects have included chills and drug fever.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have been reported rarely. These have included weakness, drowsiness, and seizures.

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