praziquanteli

Praziquantel is a synthetic pyrazinoisoquinoline derivative used as a medication to treat a variety of parasitic worm infections, particularly fluke and tapeworm infections in humans and animals. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.

The mechanism of action of praziquantel involves disrupting the parasite's cell membrane integrity. It increases the permeability of the cell membranes to calcium ions, leading to muscle contraction, vacuolization, and eventual death of the parasite. Praziquantel is effective against a wide range of cestodes (tapeworms) and trematodes (flukes), including Schistosoma species, Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini, Paragonimus species, and Taenia species.

Praziquantel is administered orally and is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and drowsiness. These side effects are usually mild and transient. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific parasitic infection and the patient's weight. It is often prescribed as a single dose for some infections, while others may require multiple doses over several days. Praziquantel is not typically effective against nematodes (roundworms). It is considered safe for use in pregnant women in the second and third trimesters, and in children.