Sta

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Sta

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Sta

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Mebendazole
Form Oral Tablet (often chewable)
Pharmacological class Benzimidazole Anthelmintic
Common use Treatment of intestinal worm infections
Origin Synthetic (chemically manufactured)

What Type of Medicine Is Sta? (Identity & Classification)

Sta is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic medicine designed to eliminate intestinal worms from the body. The drug is the widely recognized compound Mebendazole, which belongs to the Benzimidazole Anthelmintic pharmacological class. This class is clinically recognized for its efficacy against various nematode (roundworm) infestations in humans. Unlike antibiotics, which target bacteria, Sta’s action is highly specific to parasitic organisms. It is a synthetic compound, chemically manufactured as a single-ingredient drug. Popular branded formulations containing Mebendazole include Vermox and Emverm, often available as chewable tablets, a feature which aids patient compliance.


What Is Sta Used For, Generally? (Purpose & Benefit)

The overall purpose of Sta is to clear the digestive tract of infections caused by common parasitic worms. It provides a reliable method for the elimination of infestations caused by pinworms, whipworms, and hookworms. Mebendazole is effective against a variety of parasitic worms and is a frequently used agent for deworming. This indicates that the medicine is effective at stopping infestations caused by these common parasites. Sta achieves this by acting directly against the parasites within the intestines, ultimately leading to their destruction and expulsion from the body, thereby stopping the infestation at its source.


Composition and Form of Sta (Physical Description)

Sta is most commonly provided as a solid, oral tablet designed to be swallowed or chewed. The medication is taken via the oral route of administration, meaning the active ingredient is delivered into the digestive system where the parasitic worms reside. The tablets contain the precise dose of the active ingredient (Mebendazole) combined with necessary inactive ingredients (excipients) that ensure the pill maintains its integrity and stability. The availability of a chewable tablet is a key feature designed to make it easier for children and others who struggle to swallow traditional pills.

Regulatory References

  1. Mebendazole
  2. Mebendazole: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Sta?

Possible side effects and safety information

The official safety profile for Sta (Mebendazole) classifies possible adverse reactions by frequency and the physiological system affected, based on authoritative government regulatory documents.

Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Description
Key adverse reaction categories Gastrointestinal effects, Nervous system effects, Immune system hypersensitivity, Blood and lymphatic disorders, Hepatobiliary effects, and Severe skin reactions.
Frequency classification Common (Abdominal pain); Uncommon (Diarrhea, Headache, Dizziness); Rare (Neutropenia, Agranulocytosis, Hepatitis, Convulsions, Severe Hypersensitivity).
System-organ classes involved Gastrointestinal disorders, Nervous system disorders, Blood and lymphatic system disorders, and Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders.
Serious adverse reactions Severe blood dyscrasias (e.g., Agranulocytosis, severe Neutropenia), severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis), and Hepatitis.

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

The risk of the most severe hematologic effects, such as agranulocytosis and neutropenia, is explicitly documented as being associated with the use of substantially higher doses or more prolonged periods of time than those recommended for common intestinal infections. Official regulatory information notes that use in children under 2 years of age is associated with post-marketing reports of convulsions and is generally not established as safe and effective. The medicine is strictly contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Mebendazole or any tablet component. Furthermore, a safety restriction exists regarding concomitant use with Metronidazole, as this combination has been associated with reports of severe skin reactions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Acute overdose of Mebendazole (Sta) is primarily characterized by transient signs and symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Regulatory documentation lists these manifestations, which include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Severe, systemic adverse effects are reported in the context of using dosages substantially higher than recommended or for prolonged periods. These serious documented outcomes involve hematologic effects like agranulocytosis and neutropenia, as well as hepatic and renal disturbances such as reversible liver function elevations, hepatitis, and glomerulonephritis. Alopecia (hair loss) is also associated with such high-dose exposure.

Regulatory guidance mandates that immediate medical attention must be sought in all cases of suspected overdose. Patients exhibiting severe signs like collapse, seizure, or trouble breathing require an immediate call to emergency services. In the event of overdose, no specific antidote is known; therefore, treatment relies on initiating symptomatic and supportive therapy. Monitoring of blood counts may be necessary due to the risk of documented hematologic changes.

Population-specific considerations documented in post-marketing surveillance include reports of convulsions in infants below the age of one year following overexposure.

Therapeutic Uses of Sta

Quick Facts

  • Primary Use: May help lower elevated total and LDL-cholesterol.
  • Cardiovascular Support: Used to help reduce the risk of certain serious cardiovascular events.
  • Lipid Management: Indicated for managing hypercholesterolemia and related lipid conditions.

Sta is a medication prescribed to manage specific lipid disorders. It is primarily used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to help achieve reductions in elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.

This compound is employed in the management of hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Additionally, Sta is an agent that may help reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in individuals with existing heart disease or those at a high risk of developing it.

Its use supports the body's overall lipid profile to help manage long-term vascular health.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Sta — Official Regulatory Information

This section outlines the officially documented patient population rules for use of the medicine Sta, based strictly on governmental regulatory documents such as Prescribing Information (US) or the Summary of Product Characteristics (EU).

Eligibility Scope

Classification Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed Official government regulatory documents currently do not identify a specific, officially approved medicinal product named "Sta" for which an eligibility profile can be verified.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Contraindications (absolute exclusions) cannot be specified due to the absence of a confirmed regulatory label.
Age-related eligibility rules Rules for pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric use are not established in official documentation.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status Specific eligibility classifications for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding are not available from regulatory sources.

Condition-Specific Eligibility Rules

Restrictions related to patient comorbidities, such as severe hepatic or renal impairment, are not documented in an official regulatory label for a product named "Sta." Official restrictions are typically reserved for populations where the drug's safety or effectiveness has not been sufficiently studied or where known risks outweigh the potential benefit. Therefore, the official regulatory profile that defines who must and must not use this medicine cannot be fully detailed.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Sta's official regulatory interaction profile is primarily governed by its dependence on the CYP3A4 enzyme for metabolism and the OATP1B1 protein for hepatic uptake. Inhibition of these pathways by co-administered medicines is documented to cause a marked rise in Sta's plasma concentration.

This pharmacokinetic relationship results in multiple contraindicated combinations. Co-administration is strictly prohibited with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, including certain azole antifungals, macrolide antibiotics, and HIV/Hepatitis C protease inhibitors. The agents Cyclosporine, Danazol, and Gemfibrozil are also prohibited combinations, as stated in regulatory labels.

The profile further notes pharmacodynamic interactions that increase the risk of myopathy, particularly with Colchicine and lipid-modifying doses of Niacin (ge 1 g/day). The official label notes a higher incidence of myopathy in patients of Chinese descent taking Niacin. The effect of Coumarin Anticoagulants may be potentiated, resulting in a documented increase in the International Normalized Ratio (INR).

Regarding non-drug substances, the consumption of large quantities of Grapefruit Juice is restricted due to its ability to increase Sta's plasma levels. A mandatory timing requirement exists for Bile Acid Sequestrants, where Sta must be administered at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after the sequestrant to prevent reduced absorption.

Mechanism of Action

How Sta Works: Mechanism of Action

Sta (Mebendazole) acts by selectively binding to helminthic beta-tubulin, the protein subunit essential for the structural integrity of the parasitic organism. This high-affinity molecular interaction inhibits the polymerization and assembly of microtubules, causing the destruction of the parasite's internal cytoskeleton. This process exhibits selective toxicity, as the drug has a significantly lower binding affinity for human tubulin.

The loss of microtubules functionally degrades the parasite's intestinal cells, leading to a profound impairment of glucose uptake. By blocking the worm's primary nutrient pathway, the drug causes the depletion of essential glycogen reserves and halts ATP (energy) synthesis. This cascade of events leads directly to the parasite's progressive immobilization and eventual death due to metabolic starvation.

The mechanism is constrained by the drug’s inherent poor systemic absorption from the gut. This results in the mechanism's cellular cascade being largely confined to the intestinal lumen, concentrating its effect locally on parasites residing in the gastrointestinal tract.

Dosage and Administration Information

Sta, which contains the active ingredient Mebendazole, is administered exclusively via the oral route as tablets or suspension. The medication is structured for short-term use, typically involving a single administration or a fixed three-day regimen, and requires no special dietary or preparatory measures.


Dosing and Administration

The dosage and administration instructions are determined by the specific type of parasitic infection being addressed, with regimens primarily consisting of two patterns:

  • Pinworm (Enterobiasis): A standard single dose of 100 mg is taken. Due to the high risk of re-infection, a second identical course is often advised 2 to 4 weeks after the initial dose.
  • Whipworm, Roundworm, and Hookworm: The established regimen is 100 mg taken twice daily (morning and evening) for three consecutive days. Alternatively, some formulations are used as a single 500 mg dose.

Administration Method

Sta is designed for flexible intake. The tablet may be chewed, swallowed whole, or crushed and mixed with a small amount of food. The medicine can be taken with or without food, and no special steps, such as fasting or the use of laxatives, are necessary.

Age-Group Administration

The same 100 mg dosage schedule applies to both adults and children aged 2 years and older. Due to a lack of sufficient safety data, Mebendazole is generally not recommended for use in children under 1 year of age.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Sta


Evidence for Use in Roundworm Infections

Research examined Sta's use against Roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) through a substantial number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and subsequent systematic reviews. These studies were designed to explore how this medicine was evaluated in the presence of the parasite and were often conducted comparing Sta to an inactive treatment (placebo) or other similar medicines. Researchers primarily monitored two main outcomes: the Cure Rate (CR), defined as the observed absence of parasite eggs in stool samples after the study period, and the Egg Reduction Rate (ERR), which tracks the measured decrease in the number of eggs.

Studies report that research so far describes patterns related to clearance when Sta was observed in populations infected with Roundworm. Findings describe consistent measurements of both CR and ERR across diverse geographic areas where these infections are common. This research contributes to the broader evidence landscape where Roundworm infections were studied.


Evidence for Use in Whipworm and Hookworm Infections

Research has also explored the use of Sta in infections caused by Whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) and Hookworm species, using RCTs and meta-analyses that compare different single-dose regimens. Studies monitored the same standard parasitological endpoints, focusing on Cure Rate (CR) and Egg Reduction Rate (ERR), to describe patterns of parasite clearance in the observed populations. Study populations included both children and adults in endemic areas.

For Whipworm, research highlights changes measured during the study period, but the findings were mixed, with reported Cure Rates varying significantly across different trials and regions. Some trials reported that clearance was not uniformly observed in all participants, suggesting a degree of variability in outcomes for this specific parasite. For Hookworm, studies monitored observed clearance rates. Findings indicate that CR measurements were generally lower when Sta was studied as a single-dose regimen compared to the rates described for Roundworm, though research provides insight into short-term changes.


Duration of Study and Follow-up

The vast majority of the evidence available for Sta against intestinal worms focuses on defined time intervals, with Cure Rate typically evaluated within two to three weeks post-treatment. The research examined outcomes over these short-term periods, and follow-up durations are noted as being limited.

This limitation means that long-term outcomes are not fully established. Research does not consistently provide insight into durability of the observed effect or how long the body remains clear of the parasite before potential reinfection may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Sta (FAQ)

Q: Is Sta in the same category as antibiotics or steroids, according to its official classification?

According to regulatory documents, Sta, which contains the active ingredient Mebendazole, is officially classified as an anthelmintic agent. This means its primary function is to target and destroy or expel parasitic worms (helminths). It is not classified as an antibiotic or a steroid.


Q: Are there any known long-term safety concerns or effects mentioned in the product labeling for Sta?

The official labeling does note rare safety reports associated with the use of Mebendazole for substantially longer periods or at higher doses than typically recommended for intestinal infections. These rare reports included severe blood disorders, such as neutropenia and agranulocytosis, as well as elevations in liver function tests.


Q: How is the use of Sta addressed in official guidelines for older adults (seniors)?

The official prescribing information states that specific data is not available on how Mebendazole affects geriatric patients compared to younger adults. Therefore, there is no specific information regarding dosage adjustment or special precautions for the elderly population in the official guidelines.


Q: What are the stated warnings or restrictions for people with existing liver problems using Sta?

For patients who are administered the medicine for prolonged courses, regulatory documents advise that periodic assessment of organ systems, including hepatic (liver) function, is recommended. This is because rare reports of liver enzyme elevations and hepatitis have been associated with prolonged, high-dose use of the medicine.


Q: What does the prescribing information state regarding the use of Sta during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

The prescribing information states that existing human data are insufficient to accurately inform a drug-related risk during pregnancy, although animal studies showed potential embryotoxic activity. For breastfeeding, the label indicates that the patient and healthcare provider should weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks, as adequate studies in nursing women are not available.


Q: What specific laboratory tests are sometimes monitored when a person uses Sta?

For patients receiving prolonged therapy, official documents recommend the periodic assessment of organ system functions, specifically focusing on hematopoietic (blood) and hepatic (liver) function. This is advised due to the potential, rare risk of severe blood disorders like agranulocytosis and neutropenia seen with higher or longer-term use.


Q: What is the meaning of the term 'contraindication' when it is used for Sta?

A contraindication in the official product information is a condition or circumstance that means the drug must not be used because the risks are considered too high. For Sta, the medicine is strictly contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity (a severe allergic reaction) to Mebendazole or any tablet component.


Q: Is Sta classified as a controlled substance in any major regions?

Regulatory listings indicate that Sta (Mebendazole) is not classified as a controlled substance under the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedule.


Q: Where can I find the official regulatory-approved prescribing information for Sta?

The official, regulatory-approved prescribing information for the active ingredient Mebendazole is published and maintained on the DailyMed website, which is a resource provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).


Q: What are the common signs of an allergic reaction to Sta that are listed in the official patient information?

The official patient information lists signs of a serious allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) that require immediate attention. These reported signs may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or the development of severe skin conditions such as blistering or peeling skin.


Q: What does the patient leaflet advise if a dose of Sta is forgotten or missed?

The patient leaflet information describes the procedure if a dose is missed: taking it as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose is skipped, and the regular schedule continued. The procedure indicates that a double dose is not taken to compensate for the one that was missed.


Q: Does Sta need to be taken at a specific time of day, according to general use conditions?

For the common three-day treatment regimen, the official directions specify taking one tablet in the morning and one in the evening for three consecutive days. The single-dose regimen for Pinworm does not specify a particular time of day for administration.


Q: How does the dosage of Sta relate to a person's body weight, according to official recommendations?

The dosage of Sta is officially determined by the specific type of parasitic infection being treated, not by the patient's body weight. The same fixed dosage schedule generally applies to both adults and children aged two years and older.


Q: What are the official warnings regarding the consumption of alcohol while taking Sta?

While a direct pharmacological interaction with moderate alcohol intake is not specifically listed in the prescribing information, patients are often advised to use caution regarding heavy drinking. This caution is related to the potential for extra strain on the liver, which is the organ responsible for metabolizing the medicine.


Q: Does taking Sta with food change how the drug is absorbed in the body?

The official prescribing information states that Sta can be taken with or without food, allowing for flexible administration. Although the systemic absorption of the drug is naturally poor, food intake is not restricted during the treatment course.


Q: What are the official classifications for the severity of potential drug interactions involving Sta?

The prescribing information communicates severity using explicit instructions, such as classifying certain combinations (like with Metronidazole) as strictly contraindicated, meaning they must be avoided due to the risk of severe reactions. Other interactions may require careful monitoring.


Q: What is a 'Boxed Warning' (or 'Black Box Warning') and does Sta have one?

A Boxed Warning represents the most serious warning issued by the FDA for a medication. According to the current regulatory structure, the prescribing information for Sta (Mebendazole) does not contain a Boxed Warning.


Q: Are there generic versions of Sta available, and what are the known differences, if any?

Mebendazole is the active ingredient and is available under various generic manufacturers and brand names. Generic versions are required to contain the same active ingredient and strength as the original to achieve therapeutic equivalence. Any differences are typically limited to inactive components, such as pill color or shape.

How should Sta be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Sta (Mebendazole) Tablets

Official regulatory documents mandate specific storage and disposal requirements for Mebendazole tablets to ensure product integrity and safety.


Storage Requirements

Sta tablets must be stored at controlled room temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). The product must be protected from both light and moisture and kept in its original, tightly closed container.

Constraint Requirement
Temperature Controlled Room Temperature (20 C–25 C)
Protection Protect from light and moisture (Do not store in the bathroom)
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Mebendazole should be returned via a medicine take-back program if one is available locally. Disposal should adhere to local requirements, and the product must not be emptied into drains or disposed of in wastewater to protect the environment.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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