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Antiparasitic (anthelmintic for filarial worms)

Diethylcarbamazine: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as DEC, Hetrazan, Banocide.

Diese Informationen dienen ausschließlich der allgemeinen Orientierung und stellen keine medizinische Beratung dar. Konsultieren Sie bei persönlichen gesundheitlichen Anliegen stets eine qualifizierte medizinische Fachkraft. Wählen Sie im Notfall Ihre örtliche Notrufnummer.

What it is used for

  • Lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis)
  • Loiasis (Loa loa infection)
  • Tropical pulmonary eosinophilia caused by filarial worms

How it works

Diethylcarbamazine makes the tiny immature filarial worms (microfilariae) more visible and vulnerable to the body's immune defences, which then clear them from the blood and tissues.

How it is taken

Taken as oral tablets, usually with food, as a course over several days, sometimes starting at a lower amount and increasing to reduce reactions. It is used under medical supervision, especially where heavy worm burdens are possible. Take it exactly as your doctor directs.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Tiredness
  • Mild fever
  • Itching or rash (often from the dying parasites)
  • Joint or muscle aches

Serious effects — get help

  • Strong reactions as many worms die at once, with high fever, severe headache, or swelling — seek medical care
  • Vision changes or eye pain (important in Loa loa infection) — seek urgent care
  • Severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty — seek emergency care
  • Severe brain symptoms such as confusion or seizures in heavy Loa loa infection — seek emergency care

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other antiparasitic medicines used in the same programmes
  • Tell your clinician about all medicines you take

Who should take care

  • People who may also have river blindness or heavy Loa loa infection need special assessment first, as treatment can cause dangerous reactions
  • Treatment is often started carefully and built up to limit reactions
  • Tell your clinician about eye symptoms or other parasitic infections
  • Inform your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Use under medical supervision

Frequently asked questions

Why do I feel feverish or itchy after taking it?
As large numbers of worms die, the body reacts with fever, headache, and itching. This is often expected, but tell your clinician if it is severe.
Why does my eye or brain need checking first?
If you also carry heavy Loa loa or river-blindness infection, treatment can trigger serious eye or brain reactions, so clinicians assess this before starting.
Why does the dose sometimes start small?
Starting low and increasing helps limit the strength of the reaction as parasites die. Follow the schedule your clinician gives exactly.
Is it taken for several days?
It is usually a course over several days, though programme schedules vary. Complete the full course as directed.
Is Diethylcarbamazine safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.
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