A threadworm infection can easily be treated over the counter using Ovex. Containing mebendazole, Ovex is the first line treatment to quickly eliminate the worms responsible for irritable symptoms such as a persistent nighttime itch.

Available as a chewable tablet and liquid formulation, read on to discover how the treatment works and who the suspension may be a better option for.

What is Ovex Oral Suspension?

Ovex suspension is an over-the-counter anti-parasitic treatment used to treat threadworms (pinworms). Threadworms are tiny, white, thread-like worms which infect the human gut.

Whilst not inherently dangerous, they can cause irritable symptoms such as a persistent itch, worse at night and can affect quality of sleep.

Containing the active ingredient mebendazole, the treatment is suitable for most individuals aged 2 years and over.

A single bottle of suspension can be used to treat the whole family at the same time - a distinct advantage over the tablets.

Tablet or suspension - which is right for my child?

Whilst both the tablet and suspension are equally effective, they differ in texture, flavour and how they are taken.

Both formulations are licensed to treat threadworms in children ages 2 and over. The right formulation depends on personal preferences and ability to swallow tablets.

The suspension is ideal for those who have:

• Difficulty swallowing - where the liquid is the obvious choice.

• Texture sensitivity - the chalky texture of chewed tablets may be disliked.

The tablets are ideal for:

• Older children

• Difficult to treat children - the tablets can be crushed and mixed into a spoon of yoghurt.

• Less mess and travel friendly

How to give Ovex suspension

It’s important to administer threadworm treatment accurately to ensure the infection is completely cleared from your household. Ovex suspension is popular due to its effectiveness and easy for young children to swallow.

However, as a liquid, precise measuring is important to make sure everyone gets the full therapeutic dose. Unlike other liquid medications, Ovex is not dosed based on age or weight and a fixed dose is required.

1. Shake the bottle - ensuring the medicine is evenly distributed throughout the liquid.

2. Use the correct measure - always use the spoon provided in the Ovex box. Do not use standard kitchen teaspoons.

The dose for all patients aged 2 years and over is one 5ml spoonful, given at any time of day, with or without food.

Everyone in the household must be treated regardless of symptoms, unless they are under 2 years old, pregnant or breastfeeding.

A single 5ml dose is highly effective at killing the adult threadworms but it does not kill the eggs that may already be present in the environment.
For this reason, a second dose taken 14 days after the first can be taken if reinfection is suspected.

Additionally, it's important to ensure strict hygiene measures including:

• Washing hands, and scrubbing fingernails, especially before eating, after using the toilet or changing nappies.

• Showering every morning.

• Keeping fingernails short.

• Wash clothing, bedding and soft toys at a high temperature, everyday.

• Disinfect surfaces

• Vacuum and dust with a damp cloth

• Ensure everyone wears underwear at night, changed in the morning.

Can children under 2 have Ovex suspension?

No, Ovex must not be given to children under 2 years. For these patients, strict hygiene practice is essential. Additionally, take the child to see the GP who may be able to prescribe treatment under their supervision.

The manufacturer’s guidelines explicitly state Ovex has not been extensively studied in this age group, following which safety cannot be confirmed.

As a toddler’s gut and liver are still developing, a medical professional must weigh up the risk of the threadworm infection against the potential risk/benefit of treatment before authorising.

Is Ovex suspension safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ovex suspension cannot be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding. As with children under 2, GP intervention is required as well as following strict hygiene practices.

Ovex side effects

Ovex is generally well tolerated. A very small amount of the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream, instead staying in the gut to target worms.
However, some minor side effects can occur including:

• Common side effects - temporary stomach discomfort, mild abdominal pain, wind (flatulence) or mild diarrhoea

• Rare side effects - skin rashes or dizziness.

Other side effects, whilst very rare require immediate medical attention and include:

• An allergic reaction - swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, with difficulty breathing

• Seizures.

How long does it take to work?

The treatment gets to work straight away, but it can take a few days to kill adult worms which then pass out of your system.

If the itching does not ease over a few days, or if you still notice live worms after a week, consult your healthcare provider or GP.