Praziquantel
Parasitic Intestinal Diseases, Clonorchiasis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Anthelmintic
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Praziquantel
Summary
Praziquantel is primarily used to treat parasitic infections caused by worms including schistosomiasis, tapeworms, and flukes.
Praziquantel works by damaging the outer surface of the worms, causing them to lose their structure and function. This leads to their elimination from the body.
For schistosomiasis, the typical dose is 40 mg/kg body weight taken in two or three doses. For tapeworm infections, the usual dose is 5-10 mg/kg body weight, usually given as a single dose. Praziquantel is taken orally with food.
Common side effects of Praziquantel include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort. Serious side effects, though rare, may include allergic reactions, liver issues, and severe dizziness.
Praziquantel should be avoided by those with hypersensitivity to the drug. Caution is advised in people with liver disease, pregnant women especially in the first trimester, and breastfeeding mothers. Always consult your doctor before use if you have any underlying health conditions.
Indications and Purpose
How does Praziquantel work?
Praziquantel works by damaging the outer layer of the parasitic worms, causing their muscles to contract and become paralyzed. This allows the body’s immune system to destroy and expel the parasites. It’s effective against a wide range of parasitic infections, particularly those caused by schistosoma, tapeworms, and flukes.
Is Praziquantel effective?
Praziquantel is highly effective against a range of parasitic infections. Studies show that it has a high cure rate, especially for schistosomiasis and tapeworm infections. Its effectiveness may vary depending on the type of infection, severity, and the individual’s response to the drug.
What is Praziquantel?
Praziquantel is an anthelmintic medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, such as schistosomiasis, tapeworm infections, and liver fluke infections. It works by damaging the outer surface of the worms, causing them to become disintegrated and eliminated from the body through urine or stool.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Praziquantel?
The treatment duration with praziquantel is generally short-term. For most infections, it is taken as a single dose or for a few days. However, depending on the type and severity of the infection, your doctor may recommend a longer treatment regimen or repeat doses.
How do I take Praziquantel?
Praziquantel should be taken with food to improve absorption. Swallow the tablets whole, without chewing or crushing them, and drink a glass of water with the dose. It is important to take the full prescribed amount, even if you feel better before finishing the course, to ensure complete elimination of the infection.
How long does it take for Praziquantel to start working?
Praziquantel usually starts working within hours after taking it, with symptom relief seen as early as a few days. However, it may take several weeks for all symptoms to resolve completely. In some cases, repeat treatments may be necessary to fully eliminate the infection.
How should I store Praziquantel?
Store praziquantel at room temperature (between 20°C to 25°C), away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep it in a tightly closed container out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, and dispose of any expired medication properly.
What is the usual dose of Praziquantel?
The dosage of praziquantel depends on the type of infection being treated. For schistosomiasis, the typical dose is 40 mg/kg body weight, taken in two or three doses. For tapeworm infections, the usual dose is 5–10 mg/kg body weight, usually given as a single dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions for exact dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Praziquantel with other prescription drugs?
Praziquantel may interact with drugs like cimetidine, rifampin, or anti-epileptic drugs, affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects. Always inform your doctor about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements, to prevent harmful interactions and ensure safe use.
Can Praziquantel be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Praziquantel is excreted in breast milk, so it should be used cautiously during breastfeeding. If you need to take this medicine, consult your doctor to determine if the benefits outweigh the risks. In some cases, a temporary cessation of breastfeeding may be recommended.
Can Praziquantel be taken safely while pregnant?
Praziquantel is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy, as it can potentially harm the developing fetus. It may be used in the second and third trimesters if the benefits outweigh the risks, but this decision should be made in consultation with your doctor.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Praziquantel?
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol while taking praziquantel. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like nausea, dizziness, and liver toxicity. If you plan to drink alcohol, talk to your doctor about potential risks and whether occasional drinking is safe during your treatment course.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Praziquantel?
Exercise is usually safe while taking praziquantel, but if you experience side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or abdominal discomfort, consider adjusting your exercise routine or opting for lower-intensity activities. Always consult your doctor to ensure that your exercise plan is safe and appropriate while undergoing treatment with praziquantel.
Is Praziquantel safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals can typically take praziquantel safely, but they may be more prone to side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or liver issues. It is important for elderly patients to be monitored closely during treatment, and dosage adjustments may be needed based on health conditions and response to the drug.
Who should avoid taking Praziquantel?
Praziquantel is generally safe, but it should be avoided by those with hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. Caution is advised in people with liver disease, pregnancy (especially in the first trimester), and breastfeeding mothers. Always consult your doctor before use if you have any underlying health conditions.
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