Mebendazole Over The Counter is widely used to treat pinworm and other worm infections, conditions often associated with uncomfortable anal itching, especially at night. Once you take mebendazole, it starts working by blocking the worms’ ability to absorb sugar, which causes them to die over the next few days.

Most people begin to notice itching relief within 24 to 72 hours after the first dose. However, complete relief may take up to a week, since the body needs time to clear away dead worms and any remaining eggs. During this period, the itching may still persist slightly, even though the medicine is actively working.

It’s important to follow good hygiene measures—washing hands regularly, keeping fingernails short, bathing daily, and washing clothes and bedding. These steps help reduce reinfection, which is a common reason why itching might continue longer than expected.

Doctors usually recommend a second dose of mebendazole after two weeks to ensure newly hatched worms are destroyed, preventing symptoms from returning.