Ovex Family Pack for Threadworm Treatment (4 Tablets)

Product Summary

Ovex Family Pack contains 4 single-tablet treatments for threadworms.

Key Features

• Suitable for adults and children 2 years and over.
• Orange flavour chewable tablets that can also be swallowed.

Directions

• Please read the enclosed leaflet carefully before use.
• The treatment is a single tablet per person.
• Adults and children over 2 years: Take one tablet only.
• The tablets are orange flavoured and may be chewed or swallowed whole.
• Crush tablets before giving them to young children.
• In case of re-infection, a second dose can be taken after two weeks.
• Not recommended for children under 2 years

Ingredients

• Active ingredients: Mebendazole 100mg.
• Also contains Microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, sodium saccharin, sodium lauryl sulphate, orange flavour and orange-yellow S (E110).

Warnings and Restrictions

• A single dose of this medicine will kill threadworms. However, it may not destroy their eggs, which can cause re-infection and also infect other people.
• It is therefore strongly recommended that all members of the family (except pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under two) are treated at the same time and that precautions are taken to prevent re-infection.
• Seek advice before using if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or suffer from allergies.
• If symptoms continue, tell your doctor.
• In case of re-infection, a second dose can be taken after two weeks.

Taking other medicines

Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have an underlying medical condition, are taking any other medication or complementary therapy, or if symptoms persist.

Storage

• There are no special storage conditions.
• Keep the product out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use your medicine after the date shown as the expiry date on the packaging.
• Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.
• Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help protect the environment.
• Keep out of the reach of children.

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

How can I tell if my child or family member has threadworms?

The most frequent symptoms of threadworm infection are itching in the lower region, especially during the night, restless sleep, and occasionally irritability or restlessness in kids. In addition, there might be visible small white worms in the child's stool or even around the anus during the night when the worms come out to lay eggs. In some cases, threadworms may not cause symptoms at all, which is why it’s recommended to treat the whole family if one person is infected. If you’re unsure, speak to your pharmacist or GP. A "tape test" — where a piece of clear sticky tape is applied to the skin near the anus in the morning — can be employed to confirm infection by collecting any eggs, invisible to the naked eye but visible under a microscope.

How do I avoid re-infection or the spread of threadworms?

Preventing re-infection is as critical as swallowing the Ovex tablet. Threadworm eggs survive for a few days on fingernails and surfaces, so cleanliness is essential. Make sure all family members wash their hands often, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Keep fingernails short and do not bite or scratch the underside. Wash nightwear, towels, and bedclothes in hot water on the treatment day. Clean the bathroom surfaces and toilet seat daily for two weeks. Ensure the children wear underwear to bed and have it changed every morning. Don't forget, even if the worms are eliminated, eggs can cause the cycle to start again if hygiene isn't maintained.

Do adults take Ovex even when they haven't got symptoms?

Adults may and normally should take Ovex even if they haven't got obvious symptoms. Threadworms are exceedingly contagious, especially in the home environment, and a lot of adults may be harbouring the infection without realising it. Because Ovex is a single-dose treatment, it’s usually safe and convenient for the whole family to take — unless someone is pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 2 years old (in which case, speak to a GP first). Treating everyone at the same time, regardless of symptoms, helps break the cycle of infection and stop it from spreading again. It's a key ingredient in making sure the treatment works properly and in the long term.

Can Ovex be taken with other medications or medical conditions?

In most cases, yes — but check with your pharmacist if you're taking any regular medication, especially for illnesses like epilepsy, diabetes, or cancer. Ovex contains mebendazole, which interferes with some prescribed medications. People suffering from liver disorders or people who are on medication that hampers the liver enzymes must see their doctor first. Side effects are rare, but it is essential to ensure there is no risk of interaction. If there is a person in your family on regular medication, take the box to the chemist so an expert can guide you safely.

What do I do if threadworms return after treatment?

Threadworms will often come back, usually because eggs have been swallowed accidentally again after treatment. If this is the case, a second dose of Ovex can be taken two weeks after the first. This kills new worms that will have grown since the treatment. Additionally, hygiene must be strictly adhered to for at least six weeks, particularly in areas such as handwashing and surface cleanliness. If the infections keep recurring, your GP may want to take a closer look, particularly if they are affecting your school or sleep. Repeated reinfections are frustrating but extremely common, particularly in families with young children. Don't worry — your doctor or pharmacist will be able to assist you.