About praziquantel
Antiparasitic medicine
Used for
- Treats schistosomiasis caused by susceptible blood flukes.
- Treats liver flukes, including clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis.
- Treats certain tapeworm infections.
Usual adult dose
Varies by infection: commonly 20–25 mg/kg per dose, repeated two or three times in one day; some infections use a single dose.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 1 year and older, dosing is usually weight-based and depends on infection; commonly 20–25 mg/kg per dose.
Common side effects
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache or dizziness
- Tiredness or fever
- Rash or itching
Important warnings
- Dose depends on the parasite and infection; follow the prescribed regimen.
- Avoid in ocular cysticercosis; specialist care is required for brain involvement.
- May worsen symptoms when parasites die; serious reactions need medical assessment.
- Use caution with liver disease or heart rhythm disorders.
Pregnancy
May be used during pregnancy when needed; treatment decisions depend on infection and local guidance.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk. Some guidance recommends pausing breastfeeding during treatment and for 24 hours afterward.
Interactions
- Rifampin can greatly reduce praziquantel levels; concurrent use is contraindicated.
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and dexamethasone may reduce its effectiveness.
- Cimetidine, azole antifungals, and some macrolide antibiotics may increase levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.