What is Mebendazole, and how does it work in humans?

Mebendazole is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic medication used to treat worm infections in humans, such as pinworm, roundworm, whipworm, and hookworm.  Mebendazole over the counter works by interfering with the worms' ability to absorb sugars, effectively starving them and causing them to die. The dead worms are then naturally eliminated from the body through bowel movements. Mebendazole is generally taken orally in tablet form, and it's safe for most adults and children over the age of two, though specific dosing and duration of treatment depend on the type of infection being treated.