Praziquantel - Drug Information

Generic Name : Praziquantel
Pronunciation : pray-zi-KWON-tel

ICD Code : Y41.4 | Therapeutic Classification : Antihelmintics

Trade Name(s) :

India - Cest, Helminthex, Cysticide, Prazisan -600, Distocide, Prazine, Albendex P, Cysticide (500mg)


International - Biltricide.

Why is Praziquantel Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anthelmintic agent, used to treat tapeworm, schitosomal and fluke infections. It works by killing sensitive worms.

When should Praziquantel not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients hypersensitivity and cysticercosis of the eye.

What is the dosage of Praziquantel?

Dose varies depending on the type of infection. Dose for tapeworm infection is 5-25 mg/kg taken in the morning.

How should Praziquantel be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth with water and a meal.

What are the warnings and precautions for Praziquantel?

*Do not breastfeed during or for 72 hr after treatment. It may make you drowsy.
*Do not drive a car or operate machinery on the day and next day after taking this medication.
*Caution needed for patients with history of seizures or liver, kidney, or heart disease.

What are the side effects of Praziquantel?

Central Nervous System- Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, drowsiness, malaise, vertigo.
Gastrointestinal- Bitter taste, abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloody diarrhea.
Skin- Hives, rashes, itching.
Heart- Abnormal heart rhythm, slow heart rate, AV block.
Miscellaneous- Fever, eosinophilia, allergic reactions, muscle pain.

What are the other precautions for Praziquantel?

*Avoid prolonged usage of this medication.

What are the storage conditions for Praziquantel?

Store it at room temperature. Keep this medication in an airtight container and keep away from children.

Schedule H

Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.