Mebendazole is a synthetic benzimidazole anthelmintic used to treat helminth infections. This drug is used for the treatment of Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), Ascaris lumbricoides (common roundworm), Ancylostoma duodenal (common hookworm), Necator americanus (American hookworm) infections. Mebendazole causes degenerative alterations in the worm by binding to the colchicine-sensitive site of tubulin, thus inhibiting its polymerization into microtubules. The loss of the cytoplasmic microtubules leads to impaired uptake of glucose by the larval and adult stages of the susceptible parasites and depletes their glycogen stores. Degenerative changes in the endoplasmic reticulum, the mitochondria, and the subsequent release of lysosomes result in decreased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Due to diminished concentration in ATP, the parasite eventually dies. Mebendazole is administered as an oral tablet.

Mebendazole Pathway References