Pyrantel Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 22, 2024.

Applies to pyrantel: oral suspension.

Precautions

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert. If these reactions are especially bothersome, check with your doctor.

For patients taking pyrantel for pinworms:

• In some patients, pinworms may return after treatment with pyrantel. The following may help to prevent this:
  • Avoiding scratching the area around the buttocks.
  • Washing hands and fingernails with soap often during the day, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
  • Wearing tight underpants both day and night. Changing them daily.
  • Cleaning the bedroom floor by vacuuming or damp mopping for several days after treatment. Avoiding dry sweeping that may stir up dust.
  • Keeping the toilet seat clean.
  • Washing (not shaking) all bedding and nightclothes (pajamas) after treatment.
• Some doctors may also recommend other measures to help keep your infection from returning. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Common side effects of pyrantel

Some side effects of pyrantel may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Serious side effects of pyrantel

Along with its needed effects, pyrantel may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking pyrantel:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to pyrantel: compounding powder, oral suspension, oral tablet.

Gastrointestinal adverse events

• Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, abdominal discomfort^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Headache, dizziness, drowsiness^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Minor abnormalities of liver function, transient increases in liver enzymes values^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Anorexia

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Insomnia

Other

• Frequency not reported: Fatigue

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Skin rashes^[Ref]

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• Pyrantel - what is the dosage for cats and kittens?

Further information

Pyrantel side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer