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3.5 Minute

24-09-2024 Team Medicover infectious-diseases

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Badal Shivnarayan Taori

Deworming Medicine for Adults

Worm infections aren't just a childhood concern, adults can also suffer from intestinal parasites, especially in areas with poor sanitation or hygiene. These infections can cause symptoms like fatigue, stomach pain, poor appetite and nutritional deficiencies. That's where deworming medicines come in.

These dewormers help eliminate parasitic worms from the digestive tract, restore gut health and prevent long-term complications.

In this article, we'll explore the best deworming medicines for adults, how they work, when to take them and dietary tips to follow for safe and effective treatment.

What is Deworming in Adults?

Deworming in adults refers to the process of removing intestinal parasites or worms from the body using medicines like anthelmintics. These parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms or pinworms can live in the intestines and absorb nutrients from the host, leading to symptoms like abdominal discomfort, weakness and nutritional deficiencies.

Deworming medications work by either killing the worms or paralysing them so they can be expelled naturally through bowel movements. In adults, deworming is recommended if there's a suspected infection, especially in areas with poor sanitation or frequent contact with contaminated food or water.

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What Causes Worm Infections in Adults?

Worm infections in adults occur due to poor hygiene practices or exposure to contaminated environments. The most common causes include:

Consuming Contaminated Food or Water.
Walking Barefoot on Infected Soil.
Poor Hand Hygiene.
Living in Unsanitary Conditions.
Travel to Endemic Regions.
Close Contact with Infected Individuals.

Practising good hygiene, eating well-cooked food and drinking clean water can significantly reduce the risk of worm infections in adults.

Signs You Need to Deworm

Recognising the symptoms of adult worm infection early can help you seek timely treatment. Some common signs include:

Persistent abdominal pain or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Diarrhea or constipation
Itchy anus, especially at night
Fatigue and weakness

If you notice these signs, you need to deworm. It's best to consult your doctor.

Types of Deworming Medicine for Adults

Several effective options are available. Here's a breakdown:

Praziquantel for Tapeworms

Use: Effective against tapeworms, especially in treating schistosomiasis
Deworming Medicine For Adults dosage: Usually a single dose based on body weight
Availability: Prescription required, not a Deworming Medicine For Adults for an over-the-counter option

Pyrantel Pamoate for Roundworms

Paralyzes worms, allowing natural expulsion
Often taken as a single dose with possible follow-ups
Available as deworming tablets for adults in India

Albendazole for Adults

Broad-spectrum: Effective for roundworms, hookworms and some tapeworms
Deworming Medicine For Adults India: Available both over-the-counter and by prescription

Ivermectin for Parasitic Infections

Works against mites and roundworms
Consult your doctor for specific dosage instructions for deworming medicine for adults.

Mebendazole for Intestinal Worms

Starves worms by blocking nutrient absorption
Often taken as a single dose, it is available as a Deworming Medicine for Adults for over-the-counter use in some countries.

Nitazoxanide for Giardiasis

Targets energy metabolism in parasites

Typical course: Twice daily for three days

Importance of Deworming for Adults

While deworming is commonly associated with children, adults are also at risk of parasitic worm infections, especially in areas with poor sanitation, close contact with pets or frequent travel to regions with high infection rates. Deworming in adults is often neglected, but an important aspect of maintaining good health and hygiene.

Clears intestinal parasites.
Improves digestive health.
Boosts energy levels.
Supports skin and hair health.
Enhances immunity.
Reduces the risk of anaemia.
Promotes better sleep and mental clarity.
Prevents transmission to family members.

Best Deworming Medicines for Adults

Here are some of the most commonly used and effective deworming medicines for adults:

Albendazole: Albendazole is a broad-spectrum deworming medicine effective against roundworms, hookworms, pinworms and tapeworms. It's usually taken as a single dose and may be repeated after two weeks if needed.
Mebendazole: Mebendazole is another commonly used medicine that treats various worm infections. It's often preferred for pinworms, whipworms and hookworms. Like albendazole, it is available in chewable tablets and is safe for most adults.
Ivermectin: Ivermectin is primarily used to treat strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis. It may also be prescribed for scabies and other parasitic infections.
Praziquantel: This medicine is effective specifically for tapeworms and flukes. It works by paralysing the worms, making them easier for the body to remove.
Pyrantel Pamoate: This over-the-counter option is especially useful for treating pinworms. It causes paralysis of the worms, allowing them to be passed out in the stool.

When is Deworming Required for Adults?

Doctors typically recommend deworming once or twice a year for adults, especially if they:

Handle soil or animals frequently
Experience unexplained digestive symptoms
Live in or travel to areas with poor hygiene conditions

Home Remedy for Deworming in Adults

While medical treatment is the most effective, some home remedies may support overall gut health:

Pumpkin seeds: Contain cucurbitacin, which may help eliminate worms
Garlic: Natural antibacterial and antiparasitic properties
Turmeric water: May reduce inflammation and support immunity

Note: Home remedies should not replace professional treatment.

Diet Tips During Deworming in Adults

Eating the right foods during deworming can help your body recover faster, support your digestive system and enhance the effectiveness of the medication. A light, clean and balanced diet is ideal to reduce discomfort and help in expelling parasites.

Eat fibre-rich foods: Whole grains, fruits like papaya, banana and apples, and vegetables help improve digestion and promote bowel movements, which assist in flushing out dead worms.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your body detox and maintain healthy bowel function. Coconut water or buttermilk can also be soothing for the gut.
Include naturally antiparasitic foods: Garlic, turmeric, pumpkin seeds, papaya seeds and cloves have natural deworming properties and can be added to your diet under guidance.
Avoid oily, spicy, and heavy meals: These can irritate the stomach and interfere with digestion, especially while your gut is healing.
Limit sugar and processed foods: Worms thrive on sugar, so it's best to avoid sweets, sodas, refined carbs and processed snacks during the treatment period.
Choose light & cooked meals: Easily digestible foods like khichdi, boiled vegetables and soups are gentle on the stomach and help in smooth recovery.

Tips for Preventing Worm Infections

Here are some effective tips you can follow to stop or prevent worm infection:

Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.
Cook Food Thoroughly: Ensure meat and fish are cooked to a safe temperature to kill any potential parasites.
Drink Clean Water: Avoid drinking untreated water, especially when travelling to areas where water quality is uncertain.
Avoid Walking Barefoot: Worms can enter the body through the skin, so wear shoes, especially in areas known to have worm infestations.

When to See a Doctor for Worm Infections?

While mild worm infections can sometimes be managed with over-the-counter medicines, there are situations where professional medical advice is essential. Visiting a doctor ensures an accurate diagnosis, proper treatment and the prevention of complications.

You have persistent stomach issues.
You notice worms in your stool.
You have severe fatigue or weakness.
You're experiencing itching around the anus (especially at night).
You've recently travelled to or live in areas with poor sanitation.
Your symptoms don't improve after deworming.
You have a weak immune system.

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Conclusion

Effective Deworming Medicine For Adults India options are widely available and essential for treating and preventing parasitic infections. Whether you're seeking Deworming tablets for adults, home remedies, or just want to understand adult worm infection symptoms.

Staying informed can help you make the best choices for your health. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and the correct treatment approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Adults are usually advised to take deworming medicine every 6 to 12 months, depending on their risk factors, such as exposure to contaminated food, water, or environments.

Deworming medicine works by either killing the worms or paralyzing them, allowing the body to expel them through the digestive system.

Some deworming medicines are considered safe during pregnancy, but it's important for pregnant women to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication. Albendazole and mebendazole are usually avoided in the first trimester.

Deworming tablets usually start working within a few hours and may take 2–3 days to fully eliminate parasites. At Medicover Hospitals, we ensure proper dosage and guidance for effective deworming and faster relief from symptoms.

General physicians and gastroenterologists at Medicover Hospitals commonly recommend deworming tablets for adults based on symptoms and risk factors. Timely consultation ensures proper diagnosis and preventive care for overall gut health.