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Antihelmintics

Unit 2 Lesson 2.14

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Define Antihelmintics
Explain the mechanisms of action, indications, and side effects of Antihelmintics
Explain the nurse's role in administration and education for Antihelmintics

Student Learning Outcomes

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Anthelmintics

Drugs used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms (helminths) in humans
Types of Helminths

Roundworms (Nematoda)
Flatworms (Platyhelminthes)

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Mebendazole

A synthetic, broad-spectrum anthelmintic used as a first-line agent for many intestinal parasite infections
Commonly used in mass deworming campaigns

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Indications

Effective for infections

Pinworm
Whipworm
Roundworm
Hookworm

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Mechanism of Action 1

Mebendazole

Microtubule Inhibition

Prevents microtubule formation
Leads to glucose uptake failure
Causes energy depletion
Results in parasite death

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Mechanism of Action 2

Other Anthelmintics

Neuronal Transmission Block

Causes paralysis
Leads to worm expulsion

ATP Formation and Calcium Uptake Inhibition

Induces paralysis
Results in worm death

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Parasites and Treatment Table

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

Parasite	Infection Type	Common Symptom	Common Medication
Enterobius vermicularis	Pinworm	Itching around anus	Mebendazole
Trichuris trichiura	Whipworm	Abdominal pain
Ascaris lumbricoides	Common Roundworm	Abdominal discomfort
Ancylostoma duodenale	Hookworm	Anemia

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Side Effects

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Adverse Effects

Hepatic effects

Liver function impairment

Bone Marrow Suppression
Low blood count (RBCs)
Signs/Symptoms

Fatigue
Increased risk of infection

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Critical Thinking Question

A client receiving mebendazole for whipworm infection reports fatigue and frequent infections.

What should be the nurse's initial action?

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Nursing Considerations 1

Monitoring

Verify age, weight, and any contraindications before administering the dose
Liver Function

Regular liver enzyme tests

Blood Counts

Monitor for signs of anemia or infection

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Nursing Considerations 2

Administration

Ensure correct dosing and adherence to treatment schedule, even if symptoms improve
Educate clients on the expected course of treatment and potential side effects

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Critical Thinking Question

A nurse is monitoring a child receiving treatment for roundworm infection with mebendazole. The child's parent asks why monitoring liver function is necessary. What is the best explanation by the nurse?

To ensure the child is absorbing the medication properly.
To check for any signs of liver damage, which can be an adverse effect of the medication.
To monitor for potential allergic reactions to the medication.
To ensure the infection is completely cured.

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Health Teaching & Health Promotion

Hygienic Practice

Emphasize handwashing and nail cleanliness
Clean personal items like bedding and clothes post-treatment
Educate on cooking food thoroughly and avoiding soil contact

Client Education Focus

Highlight the importance of prevention strategies to avoid reinfection
Provide guidance on when to seek medical advice if adverse effects occur

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

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Critical Thinking Question

A nurse is educating a client on how to prevent reinfection after treatment with mebendazole for pinworm infection. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Wash hands and fingernails frequently, especially before meals and after bathroom use.
Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables.
Wear loose-fitting clothing at all times.
Take the medication only on an empty stomach.

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Contraindications and Precautions

(Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2023)

Group	Reason	Nursing action
Pregnant women	Risk to the fetus	Avoid prescribing
Children under 2 years	Safety not established	Closely monitor or avoid altogether

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Critical Thinking Question

A nurse is preparing to administer mebendazole to a client diagnosed with a hookworm infection. The client is a 28-year-old woman who mentions she might be pregnant. What should the nurse do in this situation?

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References

Ernstmeyer, K., & Christman, E. (Eds.). (2023). Open RN Nursing Pharmacology, 2e by Chippewa Valley Technical College licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/pharmacology2e/

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