Effectiveness of Combined Albendazole and Ivermectin Treatment for Intestinal Worm Infections

The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and impact on growth of two drug treatments against intestinal worms in schoolchildren from a rural area of Guatemala. According to the World Bank, these intestinal worms are one of the top causes of childhood health problems in many areas of the developing world (The World Bank, 1993). Infected children are more likely to have inadequate nutrition due to the worm infections and are more likely to be shorter in height and weigh less than children who are not infected. After collecting height and weight information, we will split the children into two groups. One group will receive albendazole and the other group will receive combined albendazole/ivermectin. Both groups will be receiving albendazole, the current standard of care treatment. Ivermection is expected to improve efficacy and nutritional benefit as well as add increased scope of treatment for the worm Strongyloides, and ectoparasites such as scabies and head lice. Both treatment regimens and the combination have been used millions of times in the developing world and are safe to use. Co-administration of drugs would be a more efficient use of the opportunity to access schoolchildren and provide deworming treatment.