Anthelmintic (Dewormer)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Pyrantel (also called Pyrantel Pamoate) is a deworming medicine that works by paralyzing worms in your stomach and intestines so your body can flush them out naturally when you go to toilet.
Activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on nematode muscle cells, causing depolarization and sustained contraction that paralyzes the worm, allowing expulsion by normal intestinal peristalsis.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
Pyrantel is usually taken as a single one-time dose, so missing a dose is not common. If your doctor asked you to take a repeat dose after 2 weeks and you forget, take it as soon as you remember.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies, avoiding roadside or market sellers as fake deworming medicines are common in Nigeria. If you have pinworm, treat everyone in the household at the same time to prevent reinfection. Wash hands thoroughly and keep nails short during and after treatment to stop the worm cycle.
Do not take Pyrantel together with Piperazine (another deworming medicine) as they cancel each other out and neither will work properly. If you are taking Theophylline for asthma, tell your doctor as Pyrantel may increase its levels in your blood. Alcohol is best avoided as it can worsen stomach upset and dizziness.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Pyrantel with your other drugs?
Pyrantel is not well-studied in pregnancy and breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or in cars. Keep the bottle or pack tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of 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.