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ANTIPARASITIC PRODUCTS, INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › ANTHELMINTICS › ANTITREMATODALS › Quinoline derivatives and related substances
praziquantel
P02BA01
Forms & Strengths
- 600 mg oral tablets
- 150 mg/mL oral suspension
- In single-dose packets or bottles
Adult Dosing
- 40 mg/kg as a single oral dose
- Divided into 3 doses over 1 day for schistosomiasis
- 20-30 mg/kg/day for clonorchiasis
- 25-30 mg/kg/day for opisthorchiasis
Pediatric Dosing
- For Schistosomiasis: 40 mg/kg as a single dose
- For other parasites: same as adult dosing, based on weight
Indications
- Schistosomiasis
- Clonorchiasis (liver fluke)
- Opisthorchiasis (liver fluke)
- Intestinal fluke infections
- Tapeworm infections (e.g., Diphyllobothrium latum)
Mechanism of Action
- Praziquantel causes rapid contraction of parasite musculature
- Resulting in spastic paralysis and detachment from the host
- Ultimately leading to expulsion of the parasite from the body
Contraindications
- Ocular cysticercosis
- Hypersensitivity to praziquantel
- Concomitant use with piperazine
Adverse Reactions
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
Drug Interactions
- Chloroquine: reduced bioavailability of praziquantel
- Cimetidine: increased bioavailability of praziquantel
- Phenytoin and carbamazepine: reduced efficacy of praziquantel
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use