Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are among the most widespread parasitic diseases worldwide, with children being particularly at risk. Drugs belonging to the benzimidazole group, such as albendazole and mebendazole, are widely used in preventive chemotherapy and play a significant role in reducing morbidity. However, in recent years, resistance to these drugs has emerged as a concern. Fecal egg count reduction tests (FECRT) and mutations in the β-tubulin gene (F200Y, F167Y, E198A) are used as primary indicators. Results show that albendazole and mebendazole maintain high efficacy against Ascaris lumbricoides, but their effectiveness against Trichuris trichiura and Hookworm infections has decreased in some regions. Combination therapies (albendazole + ivermectin/oxantel pamoate) demonstrate higher efficacy than monotherapy, with egg reduction rates of 82–95%. Monitoring of antihelminthic drugs and implementing combination treatment strategies are essential to prevent resistance and achieve the 2030 targets for the elimination of geohelminth infections.
I. et al. (2026) studied this question.