Thiabendazole
General Drug Information and Indications
Benzimidazole antifungal and anthelmintic for intestinal parasites and dermatophytosis; combined with captan for antifungal shampoos.
Benzimidazole antifungal/anthelmintic (thiabendazole). Mechanism: binds fungal/parasite beta-tubulin → inhibits tubulin polymerization and microtubule assembly. Antifungal: disrupts fungal cell division and hyphal growth (dermatophytes). Anthelmintic: impairs parasite glucose uptake and cellular function. Topical antifungal formulations (± captan) for ringworm.
Key information
Topical antifungal (captan combinations for ringworm/dermatophytosis). External use only. Wear gloves. Not for systemic use via topical application.
How to Give this Medication
Topical antifungal: Apply topically to affected area; wear gloves during application. Apply to affected area 1–2 times daily. Oral anthelmintic: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia. Hepatotoxicity (monitor liver enzymes). CNS: drowsiness, headache. Odor (thiabendazole has characteristic smell). Dermatitis at topical application sites.
Precautions
For animals
Avoid in pregnant animals. Monitor liver enzymes with prolonged use. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. at extra-label doses.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Benzimidazole antifungal/anthelmintic — Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Potential teratogen. Wear gloves. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
If excessive product was applied, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Contact your veterinarian if the animal shows any signs of irritation, lethargy, tremors, or other unusual behavior. Contact your veterinarian if signs of irritation or ingestion occur.
Thiabendazole dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THIABENDAZOLE 15 % OINTMENT 400GM | 400 GM | Ointment | 1 | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)