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ANTIPARASITIC PRODUCTS, INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › ANTIPROTOZOALS › AGENTS AGAINST AMOEBIASIS AND OTHER PROTOZOAL DISEASES › Other agents against amoebiasis and other protozoal diseases
emetine, combinations
P01AX52
Forms & Strengths
- Injectable solution: 20 mg/mL emetine hydrochloride
Adult Dosing
- Amebic dysentery/liver abscess: 1 mg/kg/day (maximum 65 mg/day) deep subcutaneous or intramuscular injection for 3 to 5 days
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients not firmly established; use generally avoided or restricted to severe refractory cases under specialist supervision with weight-based dosing (1 mg/kg/day)
Indications
- Severe intestinal amebiasis (dysentery)
- Amebic liver abscess when initial therapy with metronidazole fails or is contraindicated
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits protein synthesis in Entamoeba histolytica by blocking peptide chain elongation, leading to parasite death
- Concentrates in the liver, making it effective against hepatic amebiasis
Contraindications
- Pre-existing cardiac disease or arrhythmias
- Pre-existing renal disease
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Prolonged use beyond 5 days
Adverse Reactions
- Cardiotoxicity (myocarditis, tachycardia, ECG changes, hypotension, heart failure)
- Neuromuscular weakness, stiffness, and pain at the injection site
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Dizziness and fatigue
Drug Interactions
- Cardiotoxic drugs: Increased risk of severe arrhythmias and myocardial depression
- Neuromuscular blocking agents: May potentiate muscle weakness and paralysis
- Other amebicides or hepatotoxic agents: May increase risk of cumulative toxicity
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use