thiabendazole /thī′əben″dəzōl/ , an anthelmintic with antiinflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic effects. ▪ INDICATIONS: It can be prescribed in the treatment of a range of worm infestations, including hookworms, roundworms, and pinworms, and was the drug of choice for threadworms until recently. Other drugs have fewer adverse effects. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are anorexia, central nervous system effects, severe GI disturbances, dizziness, and hypotension. Approximately one third of people are incapacitated by this drug for several hours after administration.
