Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] Is albendazole a prescription only drug or can you get it over the counter by asking the pharmacy? I have had pinworms for about a month now and have taken mebendazole plenty of times during this span of infection, with seemingly absolutely no difference in symptoms.  It actually seems to be getting worse..
[|AI|]  Thanks for posting your question on Chat Doctor! Mebendazole or Granted palate are the most efficacious treatment for pin worm infestations. They are given as a single dose and repeated in 2 weeks to kill any newly ingested eggs. Since the eggs can survive for up to 20 days, they might be found in bedding and clothing it is even possible to spread the eggs in the air and swallow them directly. Once eaten, the eggs hatch in the intestine and develop into adult worms within 2 to 6 weeks Since the eggs can be easily spread, everyone in the household must be treated with the medication. Reinfection is still common because live eggs continue to be excreted in feces for up to a week after the treatment Wash your hands frequently, especially after going to the toilet, after scratching, and before eating, and keep your fingernails short to reduce the chance of picking up pin worm eggs. I hope if you take all these precautions' pin worm infestation will be treated successfully.