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Praziquantel

Praziquantel (Biltricide) is a medication used to treat specific parasitic infections. It works by targeting the nervous system of parasites to eliminate them from the host body. One generic formulation is listed.

Biltricide

Schistosomiasis, Liver Flukes

600mg

Praziquantel 600mg tablets, used for schistosomiasis and liver flukes. It makes the parasite's membrane permeable to calcium, causing paralysis.

From$2.34/ tabletView

Key points

  • An anthelmintic that treats infections caused by parasitic flukes, including schistosomiasis and liver fluke infection.
  • Makes the parasite’s outer membrane abnormally permeable, triggering muscle spasms that cause it to lose its grip on blood vessel walls.
  • Some people feel dizzy or develop a headache and mild stomach upset while the body responds to the parasite dying off.

What is Praziquantel?

Praziquantel is an anthelmintic agent primarily utilised to neutralize parasitic infections caused by certain flukes. By targeting the protective mechanisms of invasive parasites, it allows the body to successfully clear the infestation. This medication is a standard choice within the class of Antiparasitics for addressing specific trematode infections.

What Praziquantel is used for

This medication is specifically indicated for the treatment of Schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic blood flukes. It is also effective in managing infections caused by Liver Flukes, which involves the bile ducts of the human host. The focused action of this compound allows it to disrupt the parasites, facilitating their expulsion from the host system.

How does Praziquantel work?

The action of this medication involves rapidly increasing the permeability of the parasite’s cell membranes. This process leads to an uncontrollable contraction of the parasite’s muscles and causes the organism to lose its grip on the blood vessel walls or tissues. Once paralyzed, the parasite effectively loses its ability to survive within the host and is destroyed by the immune response.

Praziquantel brands and forms

While Biltricide is a prominent name associated with this ingredient, products like Cysticide are also available. The primary formulation is the oral Tablet, which allows for efficient ingestion and absorption. Patients may select different brands depending on regional availability and specific product packaging.

Safety overview for Praziquantel

What to check before using this medicine

Ensure you do not have known sensitivities to this compound. Discuss existing medical conditions, particularly those involving the liver or eyes, as these factors may influence how the body processes the medication.

Possible reactions and tolerability

Common reactions can include dizziness, headache, or mild digestive discomfort as the body reacts to the removal of the parasite. These effects are usually transient and associated with the therapeutic process.

Interactions and health factors

Certain medicines can alter the effectiveness of this compound. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.

Further reading

What is praziquantel used for?

Praziquantel is an anthelmintic used to treat infections caused by parasitic flukes, including schistosomiasis and liver fluke infection. Schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic blood flukes, while liver flukes involve the bile ducts of the host.

How does praziquantel work?

Praziquantel increases the permeability of the parasite's cell membrane to calcium ions, which causes uncontrollable contraction and paralysis of the parasite's muscles. The parasite then loses its grip on blood vessel walls or tissues and is destroyed by the immune response.

How long does praziquantel take to work?

Praziquantel usually starts to work within 1 to 2 hours. The duration is 1 day. During this time the parasite is paralysed and cleared by the immune response.

What are the side effects of praziquantel?

Common reactions include dizziness, headache and abdominal pain, and some people also experience nausea, tiredness or fever. Convulsions are a serious effect that requires immediate medical attention. These effects are usually transient and linked to the removal of the parasite, so speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.

Can praziquantel be taken with alcohol?

Alcohol can interact with this medicine. It is best to discuss this with a doctor or pharmacist before drinking alcohol while using it.

Who should not take praziquantel?

Praziquantel should not be used by anyone with a known sensitivity to the compound or with ocular cysticercosis. Existing conditions involving the liver or eyes should also be discussed, as they may affect how the body processes the medication. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if any of these apply to you.

Which praziquantel products does Yasabai sell?

Products containing praziquantel include Biltricide. Compare forms, strengths and packs in the listings above.

Which brands contain praziquantel?

Besides the products listed here, praziquantel is sold under brand names such as Cysticide. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare.

Is praziquantel available over the counter in Thailand?

Yes. In Thailand praziquantel is sold by pharmacists without a prescription, and Yasabai does not ask for one either. We are an online store, not a dispensing pharmacy; we arrange your order and delivery on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Do you deliver praziquantel to Thailand?

Yes. Our pharmacy partners ship from India to Thailand and across Asia in discreet packaging. Standard Airmail takes up to 3 weeks; Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week.

How ordering works →

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