Drug Groups

approved

Description

A benzimidazole that acts by interfering with carbohydrate metabolism and inhibiting polymerization of microtubules. [PubChem]

Indication

For the treatment of Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), Ascaris lumbricoides (common roundworm), Ancylostoma duodenale (common hookworm), Necator americanus (American hookworm) in single or mixed infections.

Pharmacology

Mebendazole is a (synthetic) broad-spectrum anthelmintic. The principal mode of action for Mebendazole is by its inhibitory effect on tubulin polymerization which results in the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules.

Toxicity

Acute oral toxicity (LD₅₀): 620 mg/kg [Mouse]. Symptoms of overdose include elevated liver enzymes, headaches, hair loss, low levels of white blood cells (neutropenia), fever, and itching.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Primarily hepatic. Primary metabolite is 2-amino-5-benzoylbenzimidazole, but also metabolized to inactive hydroxy and hydroxyamino metabolites. All metabolites are devoid of anthelmintic activity.

Absorption

Poorly absorbed (approximately 5 to 10%) from gastrointestinal tract. Fatty food increases absorption.

Half Life

2.5 to 5.5 hours (range 2.5 to 9 hours) in patients with normal hepatic function. Approximately 35 hours in patients with impaired hepatic function (cholestasis).

Protein Binding

90-95%

Elimination

In man, approximately 2% of administered mebendazole is excreted in urine and the remainder in the feces as unchanged drug or a primary metabolite.

References

External Links