Anthelmintic (anti-worm medicine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Mebendazole is an anti-worm medicine that works by killing worms living in your stomach and intestines. It stops the worms from absorbing sugar, which starves and kills them so your body can flush them out.
Binds to β-tubulin in parasitic worms, inhibiting microtubule polymerization and disrupting glucose uptake, leading to energy depletion and paralysis of the worm, resulting in its expulsion from the intestinal tract.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Complete the full course even if you feel better after the first day, as stopping early means the worms may not be fully cleared. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and look for trusted brands like Mebox or MeCure's Mebendazole, and avoid buying deworming tablets from roadside sellers or open markets. It is common in Nigeria to deworm the whole family at once, which is a good practice to prevent re-infection, but make sure the dosage is right for each person, especially children.
Cimetidine (used for ulcer) can increase mebendazole levels in your blood, so let your doctor know if you take it. Metronidazole (Flagyl): taking both together may cause a rare skin reaction, so use with caution. Carbamazepine or phenytoin (used for convulsions/seizures) can reduce how well mebendazole works.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Mebendazole with your other drugs?
Mebendazole is not safe during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and should be avoided during breastfeeding unless your doctor says otherwise.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it in its original pack and far away from the reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.