Precautions for Taking Anthelmintic Medication

Most people are familiar with roundworms, as they are a common type of intestinal parasite that can easily infect humans. However, once infected, roundworms can have a significant impact on the normal digestion and absorption functions of the gastrointestinal system, necessitating timely treatment with anthelmintic medication. It is important to note that there are several precautions to follow during medication, as failure to do so may affect the effectiveness of the treatment. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Confirm the Method and Timing of Medication

1.1 Confirm the Method: Parents can regularly take their children to the hospital for stool tests to determine the presence and type of parasites. This allows for the targeted selection of appropriate anthelmintic medication. It is important not to assume that a child has parasites and blindly administer medication, as this could potentially harm their health. Some anthelmintics are effective against multiple types of parasites, while others are only effective against a specific type.

1.2 Timing of Medication: Anthelmintic medication is typically taken on an empty stomach, such as two hours after a meal. This ensures that the stomach and intestines are mostly empty, allowing the medication to make full contact with the parasites and achieve better results. Drinking a moderate amount of vinegar one hour before taking the medication can also help to drive out the parasites. If there is no bowel movement for a long time after taking the medication, a mild laxative can be taken to promote elimination.

2. Administer the Appropriate Dosage and Observe for Adverse Reactions

2.1 Appropriate Dosage: It is important to administer the correct dosage of medication. An insufficient dose may not paralyze the parasites, resulting in them moving around and causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction, and biliary ascariasis. Excessive dosages can lead to poisoning and liver damage. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid regular or excessive use of anthelmintic medication. Children with liver or kidney dysfunction, weak spleen and stomach, or acute fever should use these medications with caution or avoid them altogether.

2.2 Observe for Adverse Reactions: In rare cases, some patients may develop symptoms such as silence, emotional indifference, suppressed thinking, memory impairment, and decreased computational ability 10 to 40 days after taking the medication. There have even been cases of paralysis due to excessive use of anthelmintic medication. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor patients for any adverse reactions after taking the medication.

3. Targeted Treatment and Caution for Young Children

3.1 Targeted Treatment: It is crucial not to administer anthelmintic medication to children every time they show abnormal symptoms. Instead, regular check-ups and stool tests should be performed to confirm the presence and type of parasites. Only when the parasites are confirmed should targeted medication be prescribed to effectively eliminate them.

3.2 Caution for Young Children: Children under two years of age have immature liver and kidney functions, and the medication may harm their organs. Therefore, the use of anthelmintic medication should be cautious in this age group.