deworming

Deworming refers to medical treatment aimed at eradicating helminth infections, most commonly caused by intestinal worms. The term is used for both human medicine and veterinary care. It typically relies on antiparasitic drugs known as anthelmintics to reduce worm burden and alleviate symptoms.

Helminths include nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms), and trematodes (flukes). Anthelmintics act by disrupting parasite metabolism or neuromuscular function, leading to parasite paralysis or death. For many infections, a single dose or a short course is effective; for others, longer treatment or repeated dosing is needed.

In humans, deworming is often guided by local prevalence and risk factors. Mass deworming programs target school-age children in areas with high transmission, aiming to improve growth, nutrition, and cognitive outcomes and to reduce anemia. Individual care covers suspected or confirmed infections, with drug selection and dosing based on age, weight, and infection type.

In animals, deworming is part of routine veterinary care for pets and livestock. Drugs include albendazole or mebendazole in some species, as well as pyrantel, praziquantel, fenbendazole, ivermectin, and others. Frequency depends on species, life stage, exposure risk, and production goals.

Safety and resistance: Anthelmintics are generally safe when used as directed, but adverse effects can occur. Pregnant women, young children, and people with liver disease may require caution. Overuse and improper dosing can drive parasite resistance. Deworming is most effective when combined with sanitation, clean water, and hygiene measures to prevent reinfection.