Ovex Tablets contain mebendazole 100mg, an anthelmintic medicine used to treat threadworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infections.

A single dose kills the worms, although it does not kill their eggs. Good hygiene measures are essential for at least 2 weeks after treatment to help prevent reinfection.

Following your online assessment, one of our healthcare professionals will determine whether Ovex Tablets are suitable for you.

What is Ovex used for?

Ovex Tablets are used to treat:

  • Threadworm infections
  • Household contacts of someone with threadworms (where appropriate)

Typical symptoms include:

  • Itching around the anus, especially at night
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Visible small white worms around the anus or in stools

How does Ovex work?

Mebendazole prevents threadworms from absorbing glucose, causing them to die naturally. The worms are then passed out of the body.

As threadworm eggs can survive in the environment, good hygiene is important to prevent reinfection.

Who can use Ovex Tablets?

Ovex Tablets may be suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over with suspected or confirmed threadworm infection.

Who should not use Ovex Tablets?

Ovex Tablets may not be suitable if you:

  • Are allergic to mebendazole or any ingredient
  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • Have severe liver disease
  • Are under 2 years of age

Speak to your pharmacist or healthcare professional if you are breastfeeding or taking other medicines.

Directions for Use

Always use Ovex Tablets as directed.

Adults and children aged 2 years and over

  • Take one 100mg tablet as a single dose.
  • Swallow whole with water or chew before swallowing.
  • Treat all household members at the same time where appropriate.
  • Continue strict hygiene measures for at least 2 weeks.
  • A second dose may be required after 2 weeks if reinfection occurs or on the advice of a healthcare professional.

Possible Side Effects

Most people take Ovex without problems.

Possible side effects include:

  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Wind
  • Nausea

 

Rarely:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Skin rash
  • Swelling

Seek medical advice immediately if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is Ovex used for?

    Ovex treats threadworm infections by killing the worms in the intestine.

  • How many tablets do I take?

    Adults and children aged 2 years and over usually take one tablet as a single dose.

  • Should everyone in my household be treated?

    Yes. To reduce the risk of reinfection, all household members aged 2 years and over should usually be treated at the same time unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

  • Can threadworms come back?

    Yes. Reinfection is common if hygiene measures are not followed, as the medicine does not kill threadworm eggs.

  • Is Ovex suitable during pregnancy?

    No. Ovex should not generally be used during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor.

  • What hygiene measures should I follow?

    Wash your hands regularly, keep fingernails short, shower each morning, change underwear daily, and wash bedding and towels regularly.

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