Intestinal parasites are usually thought to be a third world problem. Unbeknownst to many, however, there are plenty of intestinal parasites in the developed world to be of concern. Treatment for intestinal parasites has its advantages and disadvantages.
Treatment for intestinal parasites that are known as Enterobius vermicularis or pinworm involves a primary course of the drug Mebendazole or Vermox. The secondary drug is Pyrantel pamoate or Pin-Rid. An alternative to this drug is albendazole (Valbazen).
The treatment for intestinal parasites of this nature also involves the preventative measure of treating other household occupants or potential contacts. Cleaning bedrooms and bedding is also imperative.
Another treatment for intestinal parasites is the treatment for Giardia lamblia. Metronidazole or Flagyl is given for up to seven days. Pregnant women are advised to seek treatment after the delivery of their child if possible. If not, Paromomycin is given. Children have to be treated with albendazole.
People can carry giardia and remain asymptomatic. If exposure is known for people in developed countries, treatment for intestinal parasites is carried out just the same as it would for a person with symptoms. In underdeveloped countries, treatment for asymptomatic carriers is not recommended due to the rate and potential of reinfection.
Preventative measures for treatment for intestinal parasites in the case of giardia are proper sewage disposal and water treatment, consumption of bottled water in infected areas, and treating water by boiling and holding the temperature for 10 minutes or using iodine tablets for 8 hours. Using a portable camping filter may be beneficial for campers in areas where giardia is prevalent. As well, children in day care should be protected from infection through using proper diaper disposal and hand sanitation policies.
The treatment for intestinal parasites of the hookworm or Necator americanus involves again, a medicinal approach. Albendazole is used once followed by Mebendazole and then a one time dose of Pyrantel pamoate. Iron supplementation is necessary due to the anemia that is usually present. Packed red blood cells may be necessary. A follow-up after two weeks has passed since the end of this treatment for intestinal parasites.
Proper shoe use and sewage disposal is the only way to protect oneself against hookworm infection.
The treatment for intestinal parasites called Entamoeba histolytica is two fold due to the two-layered problem with these parasites. Treatment for the cysts is to use luminal amebicides such as Iodoquniol, Paromomycin or diloxanide furoate. Treatment for the trophozoites is to use a tissue amebicide such as Metronidazole. In cases where liver abscesses are present, Metronidazole or Chloroquine are indicated.
Use of proper santiation is imperative in preventing this intestinal parasite infection. As well, avoid eating unpeeled fruits or veggies. Bottled water and iodine treatment for non-bottled water are advised.
Treatment for intestinal parasites is problematic in that many of the medicines mentioned above carry hefty side effects. GI disturbances with treatment for intestinal parasites are common and include anorexia, nausea, and vomiting.
In addition treatment for intestinal parasites can have other side effects such as headache, nausea, and hair loss.
As well, the medicines used in treatment for intestinal parasites can be contraindicated in certain patients with other medical issues and/or pregnancy.
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure in thinking about treatment for intestinal parasites.