Which treatment is the initial recommendation for a pinworm infection?

The initial recommendation for treating a pinworm infection is pyrantel pamoate. This medication is often favored due to its over-the-counter availability, ease of administration, and safety profile. Pyrantel pamoate works by paralyzing the adult worms in the intestines, allowing them to be expelled naturally from the body through bowel movements.

While albendazole and mebendazole are also effective treatments for pinworm infections, they typically require a prescription, making pyrantel pamoate a more accessible option for many patients. Rifaximin is an antibiotic that would not be effective against pinworms, as it targets bacterial infections rather than parasitic ones.

In summary, pyrantel pamoate is chosen as the initial treatment option for its convenience, effectiveness, and safety in managing pinworm infections.