What it is used for
- Schistosomiasis (bilharzia)
- Tapeworm infections
- Liver, lung, and intestinal fluke infections
How it works
Praziquantel makes the parasite's outer surface and muscles contract and become damaged, so the body's defences can attack and clear the worm. It is highly effective against flukes and tapeworms.
How it is taken
Taken as oral tablets, usually swallowed whole with water during or after a meal, often as a single day's course split into doses. The tablets are bitter, so they should not be chewed. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist 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
- Drowsiness
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Mild fever
- Hives or itching (often from the dying parasites)
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty — seek emergency care
- Severe headache, vision changes, confusion, or seizures (important when brain cysts may be present) — seek urgent care
- Irregular heartbeat or fainting — seek urgent care
- Bloody stools or severe abdominal pain — contact your clinician
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
- Strong liver-enzyme inducers (some antiepileptics, rifampicin) can lower its levels
- Cimetidine and grapefruit juice can raise its levels
- Dexamethasone may reduce its effect
- Chloroquine may reduce its levels
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if there is any chance of parasites in the brain or eye, as treatment needs special supervision
- Report liver problems
- Inform your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding
- You may feel drowsy — avoid driving or operating machinery if affected
- Swallow tablets whole because of the bitter taste