What it does
Febendazole is a medication used to treat certain types of worm infections.
Commonly used for: worm infections, parasitic infections
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:16:22 · updated 2026-07-20 08:59:33
About this medicine
Febendazole is a medication used to treat certain types of worm infections.
What it treats
- worm infections
- parasitic infections
How it works
Febendazole works by killing the worms and preventing them from growing and reproducing.
Who it's for
It is suitable for people diagnosed with specific worm infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: febendazole
Febendazole is an anthelmintic agent used primarily in the treatment of parasitic infections caused by nematodes and some cestodes. It is commonly utilized in veterinary medicine but has been studied for its potential use in humans. Febendazole works by inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin, leading to the disruption of microtubule formation, which is critical for various cellular functions in parasites.
Indications
- Ascariasis
- Enterobiasis
- Hookworm infection
- Strongyloidiasis
- Trichuriasis
- Cestode infections
Dosage
Children: Refer to the specific prescribing guidelines and clinical protocols for dosing in children, as it may vary based on age and weight.
Adults: Refer to the specific prescribing guidelines and clinical protocols for dosing, as it may vary based on the type of infection and patient factors.
Mechanism of action
Febendazole exerts its anthelmintic effect by inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin into microtubules, disrupting the cytoskeletal structure necessary for cell division and metabolic activity in helminths. This leads to impaired glucose uptake and eventual death of the parasite.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of febendazole involve its selective action on parasitic worms, resulting in their immobilization and death. The drug has a broad spectrum of activity against various nematodes and some species of cestodes. Its efficacy is enhanced in the presence of food, which may increase the drug’s absorption and bioavailability.
Pharmacokinetics
Febendazole is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, which limits its bioavailability. However, it is metabolized in the liver to its active form, fenbendazole sulfoxide, which exhibits greater anthelmintic activity. The elimination half-life varies depending on the species being treated, and the drug is excreted primarily in feces. It has a variable duration of action, often requiring repeated doses for complete eradication of the infection.
Adverse effects
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment
- Avoid use in patients with a known hypersensitivity to benzimidazoles
- Consider potential for teratogenic effects in pregnancy
Pregnancy
Febendazole is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is advisable to avoid use during breastfeeding, as safety in lactation has not been established.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protected from light and moisture.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Suspensions
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.