II. Indications
- Schistosomiasis
- Liver Flukes (Clonorchiasis, opisthorchiasis)
- Intestinal Tapeworms (off-label)
- Neurocysticercosis (off-label, with >2 viable parenchymal cysticerci)
III. Contraindications
- Ocular Cysticercosis
IV. Mechanism
- Antihelminth, Pyrazinoisoquinoline derivative
- Increases worm tegument and cell membrane permeability
- Allows for rapid influx of Calcium (including into muscle Sarcoplasmic Reticulum)
- Leads to rapid muscular contractions and then paralysis
- Breaks down worm tegument
- Allows for host responses against the worm including Phagocytosis
V. Medications
- Tablet: 600 mg
- Do not chew
VI. Dosing: Adults (and Children age >=1 year old)
-
Schistosomiasis
- Praziquantel 20 mg/kg orally every 4 to 6 hours for 3 doses with both food and liquids
-
Liver Flukes
- Praziquantel 25 mg/kg orally every 4 to 6 hours for 3 doses with both food and liquids
- Intestinal Tapeworms (off-label)
- Praziquantel 10 mg/kg orally for 1 dose
-
Neurocysticercosis (off-label, with >2 viable parenchymal cysticerci)
- Praziquantel 50 mg/kg/day divided three times daily orally with both food and liquids for 10 days AND
- Albendazole AND
- Pretreatment with Corticosteroids
VII. Adverse Effects
- Flu-like symptoms
- Sedation
- May persist for up to 48 hours after dose
VIII. Safety
IX. Drug Interactions
X. Resources
- Praziquantel Tablet (DailyMed)