Threadworm Treatment

Threadworm, also known as pinworm, is a common type of parasite that affects the gut, especially in children. These tiny white worms live in the intestines and lay their eggs around the anus, often causing itching, particularly at night. Threadworms spread easily through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, or through poor hygiene. Although they are not usually harmful, they can be very uncomfortable and may need treatment to get rid of them and stop them coming back.

Yes, threadworm infections can be effectively treated and cleared with medication. The aim is to kill the worms and stop the eggs from spreading. Medicines like mebendazole are commonly used and are very effective. Alongside treatment, it is important to practice good hygiene to avoid spreading the infection to others or getting reinfected.

There are some simple natural steps you can take to help manage threadworm and prevent it spreading. These include washing your hands well after using the toilet and before eating, keeping fingernails short and clean, and washing bedding, towels and clothes regularly on a hot wash. While these steps won’t cure threadworm on their own, they are important to support the treatment and stop reinfection. Always speak to your doctor before relying on home remedies to make sure they are safe for you or your child.

Threadworm is usually treated with an oral medicine like mebendazole, which kills the worms inside the intestines. A second dose is often taken two weeks later to make sure any newly hatched worms are also killed. Everyone in the household may be advised to take treatment at the same time, even if they don’t have symptoms. Along with taking medicine, good hygiene is key to stopping threadworms from spreading or coming back.

Threadworm treatments are usually available as tablets, chewable tablets or liquid medicine. These are easy to take and are available in different strengths for children and adults. The medicine works by stopping the worms from absorbing sugar, which causes them to die and be passed out in your poo. PharmXtra offers threadworm medication in a range of easy-to-use forms to suit different ages and preferences.

Most threadworm treatments, like mebendazole, are available over the counter in the UK and do not usually require a prescription. However, in some cases or for certain age groups, a doctor may need to advise on treatment. At PharmXtra, all requests for prescription medication are reviewed through an online consultation, and a registered prescriber will decide if the treatment is suitable based on your health needs.