Praziquantel Uses, Side Effects & Warnings
Praziquantel is a medication used to treat infections caused by Schistosoma worms, which enter the body through skin contact with contaminated water. These parasitic worms are commonly found in regions of Africa, South America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia.
What is Praziquantel?
Praziquantel is a medication used to treat infections caused by Schistosoma worms, which enter the body through skin contact with contaminated water. These parasitic worms are commonly found in regions of Africa, South America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia.
Praziquantel is also effective in treating liver fluke infections caused by a type of worm commonly found in East Asia. Liver flukes can enter the body through the consumption of contaminated fish.
This medication is suitable for use in adults and children aged 1 year and older. Praziquantel may also have other uses as determined by a healthcare provider.
Praziquantel Side Effects
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Praziquantel may cause serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Fever, chills, sore throat, headache, body aches, fatigue, or general discomfort
- Slow or irregular heartbeats
- Stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea
- Seizures
- Difficulty concentrating
- Cold sweats or skin irritation
Common side effects of praziquantel may include:
- General discomfort or feeling unwell
- Headache, dizziness
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Fever
- Rash
Warnings
Avoid taking praziquantel if you are allergic to it or if you have used rifampin within the past 4 weeks.
Before Taking Praziquantel
Do not use praziquantel if:
- You have an eye infection caused by parasites.
- You have taken rifampin in the last 4 weeks.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of:
- Skin lumps or nodules
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Liver disease
- Heart issues
Additionally, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to Take Praziquantel
Follow the instructions on your prescription label and read any medication guides or instruction sheets carefully. Take praziquantel exactly as prescribed.
- Typically, praziquantel is taken three times in a single day, with doses spaced 4 to 6 hours apart.
- Take each dose with a meal and a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- If needed, you may break a tablet to achieve the correct dose, following your doctor’s instructions.
Avoid chewing the tablet or tablet portion, as its bitter taste may cause gagging or vomiting.
For children who cannot swallow a whole tablet, crush the tablet and mix it with a liquid or semi-solid food. The child should swallow the mixture immediately without chewing.
Contact your doctor if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Storage
Store praziquantel at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose of praziquantel, contact your doctor for instructions on how to proceed.
What to Avoid While Taking Praziquantel
On the day you take praziquantel and the following day, avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities, as your reactions may be impaired.
Additionally, steer clear of grapefruit and grapefruit products, as they can interact with praziquantel and lead to unwanted side effects.
Potential Drug Interactions
Certain medications may not be safe to use simultaneously with praziquantel. Some drugs can influence the blood levels of others, potentially increasing side effects or reducing effectiveness.
Many medications can affect praziquantel, so it’s crucial to inform your doctor about all current medications you are taking, including any new ones you start or stop. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Please note that not all potential interactions are listed here.
