Ovex Mebendazole Tablets for Threadworm

What is Ovex?

Ovex is an effective treatment for threadworms, a common type of intestinal parasite, particularly in young children.

Threadworms are small white worms that live in the intestine and lay eggs around the anus, often causing itching and discomfort.

Common signs of threadworm infection include:

• Persistent itching around the anus or vagina, especially at night
• Restlessness or difficulty sleeping

Less common symptoms may include:

• Mild weight loss
• Bed-wetting
• Red or irritated skin around the anal area

Threadworms are highly contagious and can easily spread between household members. Eggs can transfer to fingers, surfaces, clothing, or food, and once swallowed, continue the cycle of infection.

Who is this medication for?

Ovex is suitable for:

• Adults
• Children aged 2 years and over

Not recommended for:

• Children under 2 years
• Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients
• Anyone who is pregnant or thinks they may be pregnant

How does Ovex work?

Ovex contains mebendazole, which kills threadworms inside the gut.

The body then naturally removes the dead worms through normal bowel movements.

How to take Ovex

Typical use

• This is a single-tablet dose.
• Take one tablet per person.
• For oral use only
• The tablet can be chewed or swallowed whole.
• Crush the tablet before giving it to a young child.
• Always supervise children while taking the medicine.

Ovex Suspension may be considered for children who cannot swallow tablets.

Re-infection

If re-infection occurs, your pharmacist may advise taking one further tablet after 2 weeks.

It is important that all household members are treated at the same time to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Overuse

If more than the recommended dose is taken, contact a doctor or pharmacist immediately and take the packaging with you.

How quickly does Ovex work?

Ovex begins working quickly, and threadworms are usually killed within a few days.

However, eggs can survive in the home for up to two weeks. Good hygiene is essential to prevent reinfection.

After treatment, you should:

• Wash hands frequently and clean under fingernails
• Encourage children to wash hands regularly
• Bathe or shower daily
• Keep fingernails short
• Wash bedding, towels, pyjamas and soft toys in hot water
• Disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces
• Vacuum and dust regularly
• Change underwear daily

These steps help remove remaining eggs and stop the infection spreading.

How to store Ovex

• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date shown on the carton.
• Do not dispose of medicines in wastewater or household waste.
• Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of unused medicine.