Consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting any “parasite cleanse”
Review your symptoms and medical history with a clinician
Request appropriate testing (stool ova and parasite exam, stool PCR, CBC, eosinophils, and any other tests your clinician recommends)
Use prescription treatment only when a specific parasite is identified or strongly suspected by a clinician
If you’re advised to treat empirically, follow the exact medication, dose, and duration provided by your clinician
Avoid “cleanses” that rely on multiple herbs or supplements unless specifically recommended by a clinician
Avoid unsafe practices such as colon hydrotherapy or ingestion of undiluted essential oils
Check for drug interactions if you take any medications (anticoagulants, anti-seizure meds, immunosuppressants, diabetes meds, etc.)
Stay hydrated and maintain normal nutrition during any recommended treatment
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food
Cook meat and fish to safe internal temperatures
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly; use safe water for washing
Drink only safe water (treated, boiled, or properly filtered)
Prevent reinfection by treating household contacts when advised by a clinician
Monitor for red-flag symptoms and seek urgent care if you have severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, blood in stool, high fever, dehydration, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss
Keep follow-up appointments and repeat testing if your clinician recommends it
Stop and seek medical care if you develop severe side effects (rash, trouble breathing, severe diarrhea, severe dizziness, or signs of liver problems such as dark urine or yellowing skin/eyes)