Introduction

Praziquantel is a highly effective anthelmintic medication widely used to treat parasitic worm infections, particularly those caused by flatworms (trematodes and cestodes). It is considered a first-line treatment for schistosomiasis (bilharzia) and various tapeworm infections. Due to its broad-spectrum activity, safety, and efficacy, praziquantel is a critical drug in global health, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where parasitic infections are endemic. Medzsupplier is top Praziquantel Tablet Wholesaler, Supplier and exporter.

Mechanism of Action

Praziquantel works by disrupting the integrity of the parasite's cell membrane, leading to paralysis, detachment, and eventual death of the worm. The drug increases the permeability of the parasite's cells to calcium ions, causing severe muscle contractions and tegumental damage. This makes the worms more susceptible to the host's immune system and facilitates their elimination from the body. Medzsupplier is top Praziquantel Wholesale Supplier and exporter.

Indications and Uses

Praziquantel is primarily prescribed for:

Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) – Caused by Schistosoma species (e.g., S. mansoni, S. haematobium, S. japonicum).

Tapeworm Infections – Including:

Intestinal tapeworms 

Tissue-invasive infections like cysticercosis 

Hydatid disease 

Liver Fluke Infections – Such as clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis 

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of praziquantel varies depending on the type of infection:

Schistosomiasis: 40-60 mg/kg in single or divided doses.

Intestinal Tapeworms: 5-10 mg/kg as a single dose.

Cysticercosis: 50 mg/kg/day in divided doses for 14 days 

Liver Flukes: 25 mg/kg three times a day for one day.

Praziquantel tablets should be taken with water during or after a meal to enhance absorption. Crushing or chewing is not recommended due to its bitter taste.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Praziquantel is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience mild to moderate side effects, including:

Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea)

Neurological effects (dizziness, headache, drowsiness)

Allergic reactions (rash, itching, fever)

Muscle pain and fatigue

In cases of neurocysticercosis, severe inflammatory reactions may occur as the parasites die, requiring adjunct corticosteroid therapy.

Contraindications and Precautions

Hypersensitivity: Avoid in patients with known allergy to praziquantel.

Ocular Cysticercosis: Treatment may cause irreversible eye damage.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; WHO recommends praziquantel during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks.

Children Under 4 Years: Safety is not well-established, though it may be used in mass deworming programs.

Drug Interactions

Rifampin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine: These drugs reduce praziquantel levels by inducing liver enzymes.

Dexamethasone and other corticosteroids: May lower praziquantel concentration.

Chloroquine: Reduces praziquantel absorption.

Resistance and Limitations

While resistance to praziquantel is rare, there are concerns about reduced efficacy in some Schistosoma strains. Research is ongoing to develop alternative treatments and combination therapies.

Global Health Importance

Praziquantel is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and is a cornerstone of mass drug administration (MDA) programs in schistosomiasis-endemic regions. Due to its affordability and effectiveness, it plays a crucial role in reducing the burden of parasitic diseases in developing countries.

Conclusion

Praziquantel remains one of the most effective and widely used anthelmintic drugs for treating schistosomiasis and tapeworm infections. Its mechanism of action, broad-spectrum efficacy, and relatively low toxicity make it indispensable in both clinical and public health settings. Continued research into resistance mechanisms and alternative therapies will ensure its sustained use in combating parasitic infections worldwide.