PYRANTEL PAMOATE

PYRANTEL PAMOATe (pi-ran'tel) Antiminth, Pin-Rid Classifications: anthelmintic; Therapeutic: anthelmintic Prototype: Mebendazole Pregnancy Category: C

Availability

180 mg capsules; 50 mg/mL suspension

Action

Exerts selective depolarizing neuromuscular blocking action, which results in spastic paralysis of worm; also inhibits cholinesterase.

Therapeutic Effect

Causes evacuation of worms from intestines.

Uses

Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) and Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) infestations.

Unlabeled Uses

Hookworm infestations; trichostrongylosis.

Contraindications

Safety during pregnancy (category C), lactation.

Cautious Use

Liver dysfunction; malnutrition; dehydration; anemia.

Route & Dosage

Pinworm or Roundworm Adult/Child: PO 11 mg/kg as a single dose (max: 1 g)

Administration

Oral

• Shake suspension well before pouring it to ensure accurate dosage.
• Give with milk or fruit juices and without regard to prior ingestion of food or time of day.
• Store below 30° C (86° F). Protect from light.

Adverse Effects (≥1%)

CNS: Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, insomnia. GI: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention, diarrhea, tenesmus, transient elevation of AST. Skin: Skin rashes.

Interactions

Drug: Piperazine and pyrantel may be mutually antagonistic.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Poorly from GI tract. Peak: 1–3 h. Metabolism: In liver. Elimination: >50% in feces, 7% in urine.

Nursing Implications

Assessment & Drug Effects

• Lab tests: Monitor baseline and periodic AST/ALT in individuals with known liver dysfunction.

Patient & Family Education

• Do not drive or engage in other potentially hazardous activities until response to drug is known.

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Common adverse effects in italic, life-threatening effects underlined; generic names in bold; classifications in SMALL CAPS; Canadian drug name; Prototype drug