BILTRICIDE (Praziquantel)

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Induces a rapid contraction of schistosomes by a specific effect on the permeability of the cell membrane.

The drug further causes vacuolization and disintergration of the schistosome tegument.

The effect is more marked on adult worms compared to young worms.

An incease calcium infux may play an important role.

Secondary effects are inhibition of glucose uptake, lowering of glycogen levels and stimulation of lactate release.

Indications

Indicated for the treatment of infection due to the following species of schistsom:(Schistosome haematobium, Schistosome japonicum, Schistosome mansoni, and Schistosome mekongi) and infections due to the liver flukes Clonorchis sinensis?Opisthorchis viverrini.

Contra-Indications

Biltricide is contra-indicated in patients who previously have shown hypersensitivity to the drug or any of the excipients.

Since parasites distruction within the eye may cause irreversible lesions, ocular cysticercos must not be treated within this copmound

SIDE EFFECTS

Gastro-intestinal and abdominal pains.

Nausea and Vomiting

Anorexia

Diarrheoa

Headache

Dizziness

Vertigo

Somnolences

Siezures

Myalgia

NURSING CONSIDERATIONS

Monitor for clinical manifestations of Mazzotti reactions(arthralgia/synovitis, enlargement and tendreness of auxillary cervical, inguinal and other lymph odes, skin involvement including edema,papular and pastular or frank urticarial rash, fever.)

STORAGE CONDITION

Store aat room temperature below 30 degrees

Protect from light nd excessive humidity.