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ANTIPARASITIC PRODUCTS, INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › ANTHELMINTICS › ANTITREMATODALS › Other antitrematodal agents
niridazole
P02BX02
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablets: 100 mg
- Oral tablets: 500 mg
Adult Dosing
- Schistosomiasis (intestinal and urinary): 25 mg/kg/day orally divided in 2-3 doses for 7 days
- Maximum daily dose typically not to exceed 1.5 g/day to minimize central nervous system toxicity
Pediatric Dosing
- Children (>2 years): 20 to 25 mg/kg/day orally divided in 2-3 doses for 7 days
- Maximum dose: 1.5 g/day
Indications
- Treatment of Schistosoma mansoni infections
- Treatment of Schistosoma haematobium infections
- Treatment of Schistosoma japonicum infections
Mechanism of Action
- Nitroimidazole derivative converted by parasite reductases into reactive intermediates
- Inhibits egg production and causes shift of adult schistosomes from mesenteric veins to the liver
- Interferes with carbohydrate metabolism and glutathione levels in the parasite
Contraindications
- History of psychiatric disorders or severe behavioral disturbances
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment
- Myocardial disease or electrocardiographic abnormalities
Adverse Reactions
- Central nervous system toxicity: neuropsychiatric disturbances, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures
- Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and anorexia
- Cardiovascular: ECG changes (T-wave inversion, arrhythmias)
- Hematologic: hemolytic anemia, especially in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol: may induce disulfiram-like reactions and exacerbate central nervous system side effects
- Central nervous system depressants: potential for additive neurotoxicity
- Anticonvulsants: may lower seizure threshold, potentially antagonizing seizure control
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use